Public health officials and a non-governmental organization in Kisii County have launched a campaign to sensitize the community on the need to develop a healthy attitude towards the elderly and end atrocities meted on them over sorcery allegations.
Addressing the press at Nyachenge in South Mugirango constituency during a sensitization event, Thursday, PHO Beatrice Matara, said the elderly were being educated on how to prevent themselves from mob lynching and contracting various types of diseases.
The PHO cited compromised immunity owing to ageing and lack of a balanced diet as reasons that exposed the old people to poor health.
Ruth Manoti, the Seed of Hope Organisation chief executive officer said it was important for the community to attend to the needs of the elders and not to label them as sorcerers.
She cautioned them not to spend the state support money on alcohol and drug abuse but instead invest or utilize it to improve their health.
Pastor Agrey Ombuna urged the church to protect the elderly and include them in worship services.
A beneficiary of the public awareness creation session Charles Omboke, lamented they were exposed to public lynching by the youth who were keen to dispossess them of their land.
Omboke welcomed the campaign hoping it will convince the community to spare the elderly.
By Clinton Nyamumbo/Jane Naitore
