Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and promoting the rights of older persons, including those living with cognitive impairments, through strengthened legal, policy and social protection measures.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Mrs Vimbai Nyemba said this last week in Geneva, Switzerland, during an interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the Rights of Older Persons.
Mrs Nyemba said Zimbabwe recognises the recommendations contained in the Independent Expert’s report and acknowledges the responsibility of States to ensure that older persons continue to enjoy their rights throughout changing circumstances.
“Zimbabwe appreciates the report of the Independent Expert and acknowledges the recommendations made, particularly for States to put in place legislative and policy measures to ensure the respect, protection, promotion and upholding of the rights of older persons,” she said.
Mrs Nyemba said the Government has established a legal and policy framework aimed at protecting older persons, with institutions and agencies mandated to introduce measures to ensure their welfare, support and participation in communities.
“It is surely the responsibility of States and societies to create conditions in which older persons, especially those with cognitive impairment, can continue exercising their rights meaningfully throughout changing circumstances,” she said.
Mrs Nyemba said Zimbabwe has also ratified core human rights treaties addressing issues affecting older persons and is implementing national policies and action plans focused on social protection and poverty reduction programmes.
The measures, she said, are designed to respond to the challenges faced by older people while ensuring that they remain active and supported members of their communities.
“Realising the challenges that come with old age, Zimbabwe is implementing systematic and tailor-made programmes aimed at maintaining the autonomy and care of older persons,” Mrs Nyemba said.
This comes as countries continue discussions on strengthening international and national frameworks for protecting the rights of older persons, particularly those requiring additional support due to cognitive impairment.
The Government’s position places emphasis on maintaining the dignity, autonomy and meaningful participation of older persons while ensuring that appropriate care and social protection systems are available to them.
