The government urgently needs to develop a more efficient and compassionate method for distributing monthly stipends to elderly citizens.
The sight of old men and women, aged above 70, enduring the scorching sun and waiting in long queues at designated disbursement centres from morning to evening is disheartening and troubles the conscience.
In Homa Bay county, I saw an elderly man faint while waiting his turn to receive his stipend. It is deeply troubling that the elderly must endure such long queues to access their rightful benefits, causing exhaustion and pushing some to the brink of giving up.
The complicated verification processes often lead to some of them not receiving their money, further burdening these vulnerable seniors.
The monthly stipend plays a crucial role in providing financial support to numerous senior citizens, assisting them in meeting their basic needs such as food, shelter and healthcare.
The cash transfer programme was designed to alleviate poverty and vulnerability among the elderly. However, some beneficiaries cannot fully enjoy its benefits due to unscrupulous individuals, even their own relatives, who exploit their trust and rob them of their stipend.
This leaves these seniors helpless. Moreover, they face the constant risk of theft and extortion while on their way to collect the stipend.
The question that demands an answer is how to ensure that senior citizens enjoy their money without falling prey to theft or exploitation. One viable solution is transitioning to electronic disbursement through PSPs.
This method would guarantee direct and secure delivery of the money, thereby mitigating the risk of theft and alleviating the burden of standing in long queues under the scorching sun.
The government and relevant authorities bear the responsibility of promptly and efficiently making this transition. Embracing electronic disbursement methods will empower the elderly to utilise their stipends for meaningful purposes.
We must be diligent in ensuring that our senior citizens are treated with dignity and respect, receiving the rightful support they deserve without unnecessary hardships and risks.
Journalism student at Rongo University