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June 10.2025
2 Minutes Read

Elderly in Ghana: Neglected Yet Vital to Societal Growth and Stability

Abstract pattern representing elderly care in Ghana

Ghana's Elderly: The Overlooked Population in a Youth-focused Nation

As Ghana strides towards a vibrant future centered on its youthful population, a somber reality lurks beneath the surface: the rapid growth of its elderly demographic is often overshadowed by the narrative of youth empowerment. Estimates from the Ghana Statistical Service project that individuals aged 60 and above will constitute over 12% of the population by 2050, more than doubling from 6.8% in 2021. This demographic shift raises pressing questions about the support structures for older adults, particularly in an era where traditional family care dynamics are gradually eroding.

The Impact of Urban Migration on Elderly Isolation

Ghana's transformation from extended family units to nuclear arrangements, coupled with significant urban migration, has left many older adults in vulnerable situations. A recent study sampled across six diverse communities suggests an alarming trend: over 22% of elderly individuals now live alone, primarily due to the migration of younger family members seeking opportunities in urban centers or abroad. A poignant statement from a 73-year-old widow illustrates the emotional toll: "My daughter is in Canada. My son lives in Kumasi, but he rarely visits. I live alone, and if I fall sick, I just wait." These sentiments resonate with national data indicating that many older adults feel socially and emotionally neglected, with limited care options.

Economic and Psychological Challenges Faced by the Elderly

Older Ghanaians now navigate the treacherous waters of financial anxiety, emotional loneliness, and restricted access to healthcare. Although pension associations exist, many perceive themselves as forgotten victims in a society increasingly preoccupied with the aspirations of the young. Focus group discussions reveal that older women, particularly widows, face heightened vulnerability due to factors like land insecurity and dwindling familial support. While men may enjoy societal respect, many report feeling useless without active participation in family dynamics, leading to a sense of idleness.

Proposed Solutions for Older Adults in Ghana

As Ghana grapples with these challenges, there is an urgent call for integrated social protection policies focused on solitary older adults. Implementing community outreach services, emergency care networks, subsidized healthcare, and mental health interventions can profoundly impact their quality of life. These provisions align with the holistic approach to aging that Ghanaian policies have yet to fully embrace. Strengthening intergenerational connections and creating inclusive community structures could empower the elderly while also reinforcing their role within local economies.

Ultimately, the silence surrounding older adults in national planning needs to be broken. We cannot build a robust economy while neglecting a significant portion of our population. Business leaders, policymakers, and researchers must recognize and address these social challenges, fostering an inclusive environment that values every demographic group. Only through concerted efforts to uplift our older citizens can Ghana truly thrive as a nation.

Frontline Voices (Opinion & Analysis)

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Why AGOA Renewal is Crucial for American Economic Leadership

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Why AGOA Renewal Is Crucial for Africa's Economic Future

Update Countdown to Renewal: The AGOA DilemmaAs the expiration date for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) looms near on September 30, 2025, stakeholders across Africa and the U.S. are left with bated breath. The AGOA Civil Society Organization Network is advocating fervently for the renewal of this critical legislation, which has been a cornerstone for trade relations between the U.S. and sub-Saharan Africa since its inception in 2000. AGOA has not only provided substantial economic opportunities for African nations but has also empowered them to increase their exports, reduce poverty, and create jobs. Without the renewal of AGOA, many fear that these hard-won gains could be jeopardized.The Imperative of U.S.-Africa Trade RelationsThe urgency for the renewal of AGOA cannot be overstated, particularly amid an evolving global trade landscape where Africa’s role is increasingly pivotal. Recent shifts in U.S. foreign policy, particularly under the Trump administration, have highlighted the importance of strategically strengthening trade ties with African countries. The AGOA CSO Network's recent Spring Conference underscored this necessity, recognizing that as nations navigate new policies, the sustainability of AGOA remains paramount for enhancing U.S.-Africa trade and economic cooperation.A Future Without AGOA?If AGOA is not renewed, repercussions could be severe. Not only would this affect African economies reliant on revenue from exports to the U.S., but it would also send ripple effects through local businesses and communities engaged in trade. The annual AGOA forum serves as a critical platform where industries, governments, and civil society leaders convene to discuss trade opportunities, yet its future hinges on legislative actions in the U.S. Congress. Stakeholders must act decisively, with robust strategies and negotiations that proactively address these looming trade hurdles.Global Trade Implications for AfricaThe implications of AGOA's potential expiration extend beyond mere economics; they touch on geopolitics, foreign relations, and regional stability. As African nations continue to forge new trade agreements, such as those with China and the EU, the absence of AGOA could diminish Africa's negotiating power on the global stage. Business leaders and policymakers alike must recognize the interconnections between trade and governance, as well as the importance of positioning Africa as a competitive player in the digital economy.

Africa's Quest for a Permanent UN Security Council Seat: Time for Action

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