Press Statement

HelpAge Zimbabwe’s reaction to the attack on elderly women accused of witchcraft

HelpAge Zimbabwe (HAZ), the country’s leading organisation championing the rights and welfare of the elderly in Zimbabwe is perturbed by what has been happening to senior citizens in our city. What transpired in Harare suburbs and Chitungwiza, where some residents on allegations of witchcraft attacked 4 elderly women was uncalled for. We call for the policy makers to come up with a legislation that allows the older people to live in dignity and security, free from exploitation and abuse and fair treatment without discrimination.

We call for the police to protect these defenceless citizens in the best possible way. We also appeal to the public to realise that the elderly are people with rights just like any other human being, even more-so as they are now vulnerable due to their old age, and they have got feelings too. It does not take a big heart to realise what one would feel if they were subjected to such torment in a country of birth for being an elderly person. HAZ therefore rises against such human rights abuse and calls for all those found taking part in such devilish acts to stop immediately. We suggest that the people who were involved in this uncalled for savagery act be brought to book.

Harare is our capital city whose hospitality should be enjoyed by our senior citizens. It is also part of our culture to honour and respect our elderly. Any person could be a parent and respecting parents is a requirement by the law of GOD. It is in fact a law that has the promise of blessings.

Let’s all realise that Age-Care is a community responsibility.

“It would be good if everyone could see older people as the bridge to our past and our future. They have built the nation that we are so proud of today”.