Suqoon Celebrates Older Persons and Calls for Stronger Support Systems Across Kenya
NAIROBI, October 1, 2026
Suqoon Founder Shakira Khawaja has called for stronger collaboration and continued investment in systems that promote the rights, dignity, health, security and participation of older persons in Kenya.
Speaking during the International Day of Older Persons Conference, Khawaja celebrated the contribution of older persons and recognised the decades of work by older persons themselves, community organisations, government, caregivers, advocates and development partners in advancing Kenya’s ageing agenda.
She said the conference provides an important opportunity for stakeholders to build on this strong foundation and create an even more coordinated approach to supporting older persons across the country.
Shakira outlined four key commitments for the next 12 months: advancing the Older Persons Bill, 2024; strengthening the alignment of Inua Jamii with Kenya’s Constitution and the proposed legislation; improving access to research and data on ageing; and strengthening training and curricula for caregivers and geriatric healthcare.
She also highlighted the importance of expanding specialised healthcare and strengthening professional capacity in geriatric care to better serve Kenya’s growing population of older persons. The remarks noted that Kenya has an estimated 3.6 million older persons, underscoring the importance of continued investment in specialised care and support.
The conference brought together representatives from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, county governments, older persons’ organisations, researchers, caregivers and development partners, creating a shared platform for dialogue and collaboration.
Shakira said bringing different stakeholders together provides a strong foundation for coordinated action and greater impact in advancing the wellbeing of older persons across Kenya.
She emphasised that Kenya should continue building systems across ministries, counties and generations that enable older persons to enjoy health, security, participation, dignity and meaningful lives.
The conference therefore marks an important moment of appreciation, partnership and renewed commitment to ensuring that older persons remain valued and fully included in Kenya’s social and national development.
“Longevity is the achievement. Building systems — across ministries, counties and generations — that let those additional years be lived with health, function, security, participation and dignity, is now our shared responsibility.” — Shakira, Founder, Suqoon
