Joseph Isangura
The Morogoro Regional Commissioner, Hon. Adam Kighoma Malima, has strongly condemned the mistreatment and neglect of elders, actions which violate the country’s laws and regulations.
He stated that such behavior undermines the well-being and development of the elderly.
Hon. Malima made these remarks on October 1, 2024, while inaugurating the dining hall at the Fungafunga Elderly Care Center and sharing a meal with the elders at the facility, located in the Morogoro Municipal Council.
He emphasized that when elders leave their homes and are taken to elderly care centers, the property they leave behind remains theirs. He called on the representative from the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups to address this issue by implementing laws that protect elders. Malima expressed concern over the growing trend of children seizing their elderly parents’ property, denying them their rightful possessions.
“Let me make this clear to the people of Morogoro—this mistreatment and abuse of the elderly must stop, as it is the behavior of those who lack understanding,” said Hon. Adam Malima.
Hon. Malima also highlighted that the Fungafunga Elderly Care Center has the capacity to accommodate 108 elders, though only 23 are currently housed. He urged community development experts to identify and bring more elderly individuals in need to the center, as space remains available.
In addition, the Regional Commissioner stressed the importance of providing essential services to elders, particularly healthcare, stating that it is a mandatory obligation, not an option. He directed the district directors within the region to ensure that the needs of elders are prioritized, making it easier for them to access necessary services.
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“Neglecting elder care will bring trouble to those responsible. Find other things to joke about, but not this matter,” the leader warned.
Lastly, Hon. Malima expressed his gratitude to the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, for her continued care for elders, including the provision of funds for the construction of elderly care centers and her frequent recognition of their needs.
