Elderly people across the country are increasingly facing suspicion, neglect, mob justice, and even violence, leaving many in fear, isolation, and forgotten dignity instead of care and protection.
Umunthu for Sustainable Empowerment has urged authorities to introduce tougher penalties for people found guilty of abusing older persons in Malawi, saying cases of mistreatment remain widespread and require stronger action.
The organisation’s Director of Research, Davie Chapulapula, said many elderly people continue to suffer various forms of abuse, stressing that only firm legal and social interventions can effectively address the problem.
He called for increased government-led public awareness and civic education programmes to promote respect, care, and protection for older persons.
Chapulapula also appealed for more investment in welfare programmes and support services targeting the elderly, arguing that current efforts are not sufficient to meet growing needs within ageing communities.
His remarks come as the Ministry of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare announced that Malawi will commemorate this year’s World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 26 June 2026 in Salima District, an event expected to highlight challenges facing older persons and strengthen protection efforts.
