South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
South Sudanese on Monday joined the global community in celebrating the International Day of Older Persons, an event dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges and opportunities of aging persons.
In an exclusive interview on Monday, 60-year-old James Lado highlighted the struggles faced by elderly people in South Sudan, particularly the lack of governmental care.
He emphasized that this day should serve as a call to action for the government to support its aging population.
“As we celebrate this day, let it be a reminder for the government of South Sudan to take concrete steps in addressing the needs of elderly people,” said Lado at a ceremony held in Juba to celebrate the International Day of Older Persons.
Globally, governments in the developed world are grappling with aging populations as they struggle to provide labor for their demanding market.
Lado compared the care systems for the elderly in the West to those in South Sudan, stating that much improvement is needed.
“In countries like the United States, the elderly receive better care. For instance, if an older person is sick, they receive special government support, and they are given monthly financial assistance. But in South Sudan, where we have many elderly people, there is no such support, and as a result, they tend to die sooner,” he explained.
Lado urged the government to prioritize the well-being of its elderly citizens.
Another elderly person, Tereza Juan, who is in her late 50’s, said that elderly persons are a blessing at the family level and also to the country.
“Being an elder is a gift, not only to our families but to the nation as a whole. We do need special attention as we age,” said Juan.
In South Sudan, individuals aged 60 and above are considered elderly.
According to a 2019 report from the SUDD Institute, the elderly population in South Sudan was projected to account for 1.1% of the total population in 2016 (UNDESA 2016).
Despite this increase, there is little social and legal protection for the elderly, leaving them vulnerable to abuse and neglect.
While the constitution acknowledges the rights of older persons, there is a need for stronger laws and policies to safeguard these rights and ensure that the needs and concerns of elderly citizens are addressed.
The report highlights the vulnerability of the elderly, advocates for their rights, and calls for improved treatment and support for this growing population.
