Africa-Press – Mauritius. The elderly has demonstrated a great sense of responsibility and discipline during the COVID-19 pandemic and has played a key role in preserving social harmony, promoting the overall development of the country, and endorsing values of solidarity and compassion within families.
The Prime Minister, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, made this statement, today, at the Sir Harilal Vaghjee Memorial Hall in Port-Louis, on the occasion of the International Day of Older Persons 2021.
The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mrs Christine Umutoni, the Minister of Social Integration, Social Security, and National Solidarity, Mrs Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo, other Ministers, as well as eminent personalities were present.
Prime Minister Jugnauth highlighted that the senior citizens have, over the years, greatly contributed to positioning the country on the pathway of progress adding that the International Day of Older Persons is an occasion to express appreciation for their hard work and sacrifices.
He stated that Government is consolidating all its efforts to protect the health of the elderly as well as cater to their needs and expectations. The objective, he stressed, is to enhance the quality of life of the elderly, empower them, and get rid of any kind of discrimination towards them.
He indicated that the number of elderly aged 60 years or more is on the rise adding that there are at present some 174 centenarians, which demonstrates the efforts of the Government to protect the elderly and promote their longevity and good health.
The Prime Minister recalled that a series of measures have been implemented, namely the increase of the Basic Retirement Pension to Rs 9,000; the budget allocation of Rs 28,9 billion for old-age pension, and in-home vaccination for those who are bedridden.
He also indicated that the National Social Inclusion Foundation will provide funds to the tune of some Rs 25 million to some 22 residential care homes with a view to promote the well-being and the quality of life of the elderly.
As regards COVID-19, Prime Minister Jugnauth called upon the elderly to continue taking necessary precautions and appealed to them to get themselves vaccinated as soon as possible.
He observed that out of 61 death cases registered for persons above 60 years, 86% were not vaccinated against the COVID-19. He also urged the elderly to practice more physical activities in their everyday lives and advised them to avoid unnecessary crowds.
Speaking about the reopening of borders, the Prime Minister underlined that this marks a major step for the country to rebuild the tourism industry and boost the economy.
For her part, the Minister of Social Integration, Social Security, and National Solidarity, Mrs Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo, spoke on the various governmental measures implemented to cater for the needs of the elderly.
They include: payment of the Basic Retirement Pension to 58,000 beneficiaries at their residence; distribution of food packs to 23,000 persons who receive the Carers’ Allowance; vaccination campaign carried out through health caravans and at the place of residence of those who are bedridden; and recruitment of more than 250 doctors to effect medical house calls to the elderly, amongst others.
She also stated that the Ministry is working in close collaboration with the National Computer Board to offer programmes for the elderly thereby ensuring that they have easy access to technology.
For her part, the UN Resident Coordinator, Mrs Christine Umutoni highlighted that the day is an occasion to appreciate and be thankful for the huge contribution of the elderly in the socio-economic development of the country.
She also called for more inclusive policies, strategies, and actions to achieve digital equality for people of all ages. International Day of Older Persons 2021
The UN theme for 2021 is “Digital Equity for All Ages” which highlights the need for access and meaningful participation in the digital world by older persons.
On 14 December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated 01 October as the International Day of Older Persons. This was preceded by initiatives such as the Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing, which was adopted by the 1982 World Assembly on Ageing and endorsed later that year by the UN General Assembly.
