Parliament Demands Increased SAGE Funding and Geriatric Care Improvements

Lawmakers in Uganda’s Parliament have passed a motion highlighting the critical need for improved healthcare and social support for the nation’s growing elderly population. The resolution specifically calls on the government to fulfill its commitment to raise the Senior Citizens Grant for the Elderly (SAGE) from the current Shs25,000 to Shs35,000 per month.

The motion, introduced by Sironko District Woman Representative Hon. Asha Mafabi, drew attention to the struggles faced by older Ugandans in accessing specialized medical care, social protection, and adequate financial support. The debate revealed a significant gap between the government’s announcements regarding the SAGE increase and its actual implementation.

Minister of State for Elderly Affairs, Hon. Jacqueline Mbabazi, acknowledged that the Shs35,000 SAGE payment was not included in the current national budget for 2026/27. However, she stressed the importance of finding the funds, noting that individuals over 60 are crucial caregivers for approximately 7.2 million dependants across the country.

Parliamentarians also raised concerns about the accessibility of SAGE payments, with Kole South MP Hon. Boniface Okot suggesting the use of mobile money platforms to reduce the burden of long-distance travel for beneficiaries. Okot further questioned the administrative costs of the SAGE program, which reportedly consume a substantial portion of its budget.

The need for specialized geriatric training was a recurring theme, with MPs pointing out the severe shortage of geriatric healthcare professionals in Uganda. While the Chief Government Whip, Hon. Jane Ruth Aceng, confirmed that geriatric care is integrated into the National Development Plan IV, discussions continue on establishing formal training programs and potentially introducing health insurance specifically for older persons.

Further analysis presented during the debate indicated that lowering the SAGE eligibility age to 65 would significantly increase the number of beneficiaries and require an additional Shs252 billion annually, bringing the total to Shs373 billion if the grant is set at Shs35,000. MPs emphasized that investing in the elderly is a matter of national obligation and dignity.

This article is based on information from the Parliament of Uganda.