The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) today outlined a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening social protection, healthcare and support systems for Ghana’s ageing population.
The announcement came as part of the country’s observance of the 2026 International Day of Older Persons, themed “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.”
MoGCSP noted that the number of Ghanaians aged 60 and above has surged from 213,477 in 1960 to 1,991,736 in 2021, with projections estimating the figure could reach 5.7 million by 2050.
In response, the ministry highlighted several priorities: expanding the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme, promoting healthy ageing, updating the 2010 National Ageing Policy, and reinforcing the National Technical Committee on Ageing.
Additional measures will target age discrimination, neglect, abuse and exploitation, while strengthening family, community and formal care systems and supporting unpaid family caregivers.
MoGCSP stressed that preparing for longer lives must begin early, through investments in education, decent work, healthy lifestyles, accessible healthcare, safe housing and inclusive communities.
Further details on the implementation of these policies are expected to be released in the coming months as the ministry works to align resources and partnerships across sectors.
