Zimbabwe Senior Citizens Association Rallies Support for 1 October Celebrations

Calls for Greater Protection of Older Persons…..

By Evans Jona

MUTARE — The Zimbabwe Senior Citizens Association (ZSCA) is mobilising resources and rallying support ahead of the International Day of Older Persons on 1 October 2025, with the organisation’s National Chairman, Patrick Ndlovu, calling for urgent improvements to the welfare, healthcare, and protection of elderly citizens across the country.

Speaking in an interview with Post On Sunday, Ndlovu outlined a series of events and advocacy campaigns planned for this year’s commemorations, which will run under the 2025 global theme highlighting the role older persons play in building resilient, peaceful, and sustainable communities. The event is expected to draw over 1,000 elderly people from Manicaland and other provinces at NSSA Ground Meikles Park in Mutare.

“This will be our second time hosting the International Day of Older Persons, and we want to do it bigger and better. Beyond celebrating, we’ll be raising awareness on the socio-economic and health challenges older citizens face, while advocating for stronger policies to protect and support them,” said Ndlovu.

The association’s programme will include health screenings, wellness activities, financial literacy workshops, digital literacy sessions for seniors, and intergenerational dialogues aimed at fostering greater understanding between younger and older Zimbabweans. There will also be awareness campaigns tackling the neglect, discrimination, and marginalisation that many older persons experience, particularly in underserved rural communities.

Ndlovu added that the ZSCA is actively lobbying local authorities, government ministries, and corporate organisations to support the initiative through both financial and in-kind donations, including tents, chairs, t-shirts, food, and transport for elderly participants.

Ndlovu acknowledged the severe economic hardships confronting older persons in Zimbabwe, noting that most lack access to steady income, adequate healthcare, and social security. He stressed that these realities will be a key focus during this year’s commemorations.

“Our economy is not stable and older people are suffering. We are engaging government departments and other stakeholders to lobby for programmes and policies that prioritise the needs of senior citizens. It’s time we treated our elderly with the respect and care they deserve,” he said.

The association, still relatively new, has been forging relationships with government ministries, social welfare offices, and health departments to address gaps in service provision for older persons. Ndlovu revealed that while ZSCA has been welcomed by various offices, much work remains in securing institutional partnerships and sustainable support mechanisms.

“We are eager to work hand in hand with government. They are our motherboard in everything we do, but they can’t do it alone. This is why we’re calling on NGOs, churches, corporates, and private citizens to get involved,” said Ndlovu.

The ZSCA Chairman issued a strong appeal to families and communities to value and support elderly people, condemning widespread neglect in both urban and rural areas.

“Older people are the foundation of this country. They’ve built this nation and now they need us to be there for them. Every family and community must take responsibility for the welfare of their elders,” Ndlovu emphasised.

Looking beyond the commemorations, Ndlovu said ZSCA is pursuing long-term plans to improve access to healthcare, medication, and social protection for older persons. He raised concerns over the availability of medication in public hospitals, noting that older citizens are frequently referred to expensive private facilities due to drug shortages.

“Free medication alone is not enough when there’s nothing in stock. We’re ready to engage the Ministry of Health and other partners to find solutions,” said Ndlovu.

The association is appealing to businesses, community groups, and individuals to assist with donations of food, soft drinks, clothing, entertainment services, and funds to cover logistics for the event. Ndlovu said the association expects over 1,000 elderly participants this year, compared to 200 who attended last year’s commemorations on short notice.

“Anyone willing to support can visit us at Sananga Centre, office number 5, Ground Floor, Corner Robert Mugabe and 4th Street, Mutare, or contact us on 0774 393 102 or 0716 263 311. We are distributing letters to potential sponsors and welcome any assistance in kind or cash,” he added

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