Model homes built for threatened elderly 'witches'

Some have also suffered sexual and physical abuse. 

The aim is to ensure the elderly are safe and one home already has been established in Kirinyaga county.

Kilifi and Kisii are two other countries targeted for safe houses for 'witches' because killings are widespread.

Jude Otogo from Help Age International Kenya said rescue centers for elderly people at risk are being managed by the community.

“We support the government to build rescue homes for the elderly in Kirinyaga county," Otogo said. 

Otogo said similar model homes will be built in Kilifi and Kisii counties and other areas where elderly men and women's lives are under threat because they are linked to 'dark forces'. 

Usually community organisations support the elderly at rescue centres. They train them to do minor jobs to earn income to sustain themselves.

Josephine Muriuki from the directorate of Social Development said a framework policy for older persons at risk was approved by the Cabinet in 2018.

She said it gives direction on the rights of elderly as provided in Constitution Article 57. 

“If older people are neglected, it advises what measures should be taken," she said.

Muriuki said the policy also encourages a multi-sectorial approach, including health, food, housing and  psychosocial assistance for older persons with problems.

Older persons may be accused of witchcraft, widows may be thrown out of their homes and older people generally may be neglected.

Non-institutional care is recommended.

The government established the rescue centre in Kirinyaga two years ago. It aims to be a model.

Muriuki said the idea is for the home to be a place of rehabilitation, away from the home where they were abused.

Those who are sexually or physically harmed can be healed and rehabilitated and stay there comfortably. Eventually they may be repatriated to their homes but only if they are deemed safe. Other arrangements may be made.

Guidelines for the homes and its necessities have been established so they are better than the homes they came from.

Not just anyone can start a home or partner to provide services within an institution, and be paid. Everyone must be thoroughly vetted and registered, Muriuki said.

After people were brutally murdered in Kisii over witchcraft allegations, organisations came together. They formed the Utu Coalition at to fight against injustice and raise money.

Kerubo Abuya from the Utu Coalition said statistics show Kilifi is the most dangerous place for the elderly, in terms of violence and killing.

She said Kisii was also dangerous, followed by Kirinyaga and other counties.

“We are seeking help from community organisations," Abuya said, so we can ensure the killings and abuse of elderly persons comes to an end."

(Edited by V. Graham) 

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