By Evans Jona
MUTARE – The Zimbabwe Senior Citizens Association (ZSCA) has officially transitioned from operating as a trust to a registered Private Voluntary Organisation (PVO), a milestone that the association says will strengthen its legal standing, governance, and capacity to advocate for the rights and welfare of older Zimbabweans.
Announcing the development on 24 December 2025, ZSCA thanked God for guiding the organisation through its journey, quoting Psalm 127:1: “Unless the Lord builds a house, the builder labours in vain.” Chairman Patrick Ndlovu described the registration as “a pivotal moment that will enable us to serve, protect, and empower our seniors more effectively across the country.”
The association has set out an ambitious agenda for 2026, which it has branded “The Year of Empowerment, Dignity and Visible Change for Senior Citizens.” ZSCA plans to intensify advocacy for legal reforms and the domestication of international instruments that safeguard older persons. Ndlovu emphasised the importance of these efforts, saying, “Our seniors have contributed to the building of this nation. It is our duty to ensure their dignity, safety, and rights are fully respected and protected.”
In addition to advocacy, ZSCA aims to expand welfare support programs, including regular visits to vulnerable seniors, distribution of food and medical supplies, and the establishment of a national social security framework for older citizens. The association also plans to improve access to healthcare by strengthening collaborations with clinics and hospitals, promoting free screenings and chronic care support, and conducting mobile outreach programs.
Community engagement remains a cornerstone of ZSCA’s strategy. The association intends to increase visibility through workshops, roadshows, church engagements, and local events across all provinces. Ndlovu highlighted the organisation’s commitment to intergenerational unity and digital inclusion, noting, “We want our seniors to be active participants in society, confident in using digital tools, and connected with the younger generation so that wisdom and experience are shared across generations.”
ZSCA has also outlined a comprehensive budget of USD 123,000 for 2026 to support its programs. Of this, USD 35,000 is earmarked for welfare and outreach activities, USD 22,000 for advocacy campaigns and awareness programs, and USD 28,000 for capital expenditure, including a vehicle for outreach and essential office equipment. The remaining funds will cover administration, international partnerships, and monitoring and evaluation. Ndlovu said, “Every dollar we spend is an investment in the dignity and well-being of our seniors. With proper resources, we can reach thousands of older persons and ensure that their voices are heard at every level.”
Looking ahead, ZSCA plans to strengthen partnerships with government, NGOs, international organisations, and corporates, while also growing its membership nationwide. The association aims to support over 5,000 senior citizens in 2026 through welfare initiatives, awareness campaigns, and advocacy efforts.
“United in purpose, guided by Ubuntu, and driven by love for our elders, ZSCA marches forward stronger than ever,” Ndlovu said, summarising the association’s vision for the year. With its new PVO status and an ambitious 2026 agenda, ZSCA is poised to cement its role as the leading advocate for older Zimbabweans, ensuring that dignity, respect, and social inclusion remain at the heart of national priorities.
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