Rwanda has joined the world to commemorate the International Day of Older Persons as the national celebration was held in Rutare Sector, Gicumbi District, on Tuesday, 1 October.

The shindig was attended by the State Minister at the Ministry of Local Government, Marie Solange Kayisire, who was the guest of honour, and Nothern Province Governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde, among others.

Addressing the Gicumbi inhabitants during the event, Mugabowagahunde pointed out that, while the government has provided a means of aiding the elderly, the elderly should also help themselves by indulging in the government's programmes such as Ejo Heza.

The aged Gicumbi residents were also urged to mentor the younger generation so they could stand on their own two feet.

Five households were given cows as part of the government's Girinka and Gicumbi's 'Muturanyi, Ngira Nkugire Mu Iterambere' programmes.

The Mayor of Gicumbi District, Emmanuel Nzabonimpa, lauded the President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, for the advantageous programmes introduced in the country to assist the elderly.

This year's event, which was the 34th celebration of the United Nations (UN) International Day of Older Persons, was internationally remarked with the 'Ageing with Dignity' theme.

According to the UN, life expectancy at birth now exceeds 75 years in half of the world's countries, 25 years longer than in 1950. By 2030, older persons are expected to outnumber youth globally, with this increase most rapid in developing countries.

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