Older individuals are requesting changes to the Social Assistance Grant for Empowerment (SAGE) program to better address their financial needs. Currently, participants in the SAGE program receive a payment of UGX 75,000 every three months. However, they believe this amount is insufficient to cover their daily expenses. They are now asking for an increased benefit of UGX 200,000 every three months, citing the economic difficulties faced by elderly citizens.
These requests were made during the national celebration of Older Persons Day at Humura playground in Kyegegwa District. At the same event, some elderly individuals proposed lowering the age for eligibility from 80 years to 65 years. They argued that individuals aged 65 also require assistance and support.
Mr. Deogratious Gafabusa, an elder from Kibuba Village in Kasule Sub-county, Kyegegwa District, expressed his gratitude for the financial support he has received through the program. However, he emphasized that the funds are insufficient to cover their essential needs. He shared how he planned to use the funds, stating, “Today (yesterday) I was selected, and I received my Shs75,000 for three months. I will buy chicken and start looking after it. Previously, I renovated my house, bought maize seedlings, and built a kitchen.”
Ms. Violet Nyakairu, a 72-year-old resident of Buturya Village in Kichwamba Sub-county, Kabarole District, expressed her desire to be considered for the SAGE program. She cited her pressing daily needs and the responsibility of caring for her 12 orphaned grandchildren. Currently, she does not qualify for the program due to the age limit of 80 years.
Mr. Stephen Kasaija, the SAGE program manager at the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, acknowledged the challenges faced by the elderly population. He encouraged those who are missing out on SAGE benefits to visit the National Identification and Registration Authority offices to obtain a National ID and enroll in the program. He also mentioned that the government is considering the requests to lower the SAGE enrollment age and increase the benefits.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, the chief guest at the event, urged the elderly to save and avoid land fragmentation. She also promised to expedite the progress of the Older Persons Bill 2019.
