Senior citizens in Kigali on Friday, October 2, celebrated the International Day of Older Persons with music, dancing and conversations, with participants emphasizing that staying connected with others becomes increasingly important in later life. The day is observed globally every October 1 to recognise the contribution of older people and draw attention to issues affecting their lives and well-being. The celebration in Kigali organised by Grandma Club CBC brought together mostly older women and some men from different backgrounds, including retired professionals, businesspeople and diplomats. Alongside entertainment, the feast included a panel discussion in which some of the participants reflected on their lives and shared their views on what makes life meaningful in old age. ALSO READ: Growing older does not mean becoming less valuable Agnes Nyagahinga, 92, said being able to meet people she had not seen for years was a major part of the day's happiness. “What brings us joy on this day is the opportunity to meet,” Nyagahinga said. She said the gathering allowed her to reconnect with people she had known since they were young girls, turning what might otherwise have been an ordinary day into an occasion for remembering old relationships and sharing new moments together. Nyagahinga said this kind of interaction matters because many older people spend most of their time at home. Some are unable to move around easily because of illness, while others can become isolated from the social life they once enjoyed. “When we meet, we share lighthearted moments. Being among others lifts your spirits, you find joy and simply have a good time,” she said. For her, the value of such gatherings goes beyond the activities on the programme. They give older people an opportunity to leave their homes, see familiar faces, talk about their experiences and enjoy themselves in the company of others. ALSO READ: Senior citizens weigh in on new policy on elderly persons Musician Mariya Yohana, 83, who attended the celebration, said older people are do not just need care and support, but they are also a source of knowledge that should be passed on to younger generations. “We have wisdom to share with the younger generation,” she said. She said older people have accumulated lessons through their own experiences and should have opportunities to share them with younger people. At the same time, she noted that the get-together gave seniors a chance to exchange ideas among themselves, discuss matters concerning their lives and pay greater attention to their own well-being. Yohana said remaining connected to families and communities is also important. The focus on both physical activity and social connection remains at the heart of the work of Grandma Club CBC, according to its founder, Eva Gara. She said the club initially focused on helping older women remain physically active. As the group grew, however, members recognised that their needs went beyond exercise. The club has expanded its activities to include dancing, swimming, a book club and discussions on health and financial management, among other things. Gara said the organisation wants to reach more older people, particularly those who are isolated or whose circumstances keep them at home. She also hopes to take its activities beyond Kigali so that older women in other parts of the country can have similar opportunities to meet, participate in activities and build connections. Aline Umutoni, the Director General of Family Promotion and Child Protection at the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, said older people should be seen as an important part of Rwanda's social fabric. “Your contribution is incomparable, you play a crucial role in preserving history, instilling Rwandan values in the younger generations, sharing your wisdom and counsel, and helping to build the family of today and the future,” Umutoni said. She added that senior citizens carry memories and knowledge of Rwanda's past that can help younger generations understand where they come from. She said the ministry places a particular emphasis on intergenerational dialogue, creating space for older and younger people to learn from one another. Through such interaction, knowledge and experience can be passed down, while values and cultural norms are maintained across generations.
