AfricaBib 
bibliographic database
| Previous page | New search |
The free AfricaBib App for Android is available here
 Periodical article |
 Leiden University catalogue |
 WorldCat |
| Title: | Old age pensions and the promotion of the rights of older people in Lesotho |
| Author: | Nyanguru, Andrew C. |
| Year: | 2007 |
| Periodical: | Journal of Social Development in Africa (ISSN 1012-1080) |
| Volume: | 22 |
| Issue: | 1 |
| Pages: | 89-108 |
| Language: | English |
| Notes: | biblio. refs. |
| Geographic terms: | Lesotho Southern Africa |
| Subjects: | pensions elderly Economics, Commerce Old age pensions Older people Economic security Pension trusts |
| Abstract: | The United Nations Principles for Older Persons can be divided into five key areas - independence, care, self-fulfilment, dignity and participation - which constitute the basis of older people's rights and form the basis on which to devise workable models of development. Lesotho is among six African countries which have introduced universal non-contributory pensions for their citizens. This study investigates the impact of Lesotho's newly established old age pension scheme on the realization of the rights of the recipients. A qualitative study conducted among 16 rural and urban pensioners aged 70 years and above revealed that the majority of the respondents were over 75 years of age. Most were widows. Invariably the respondents were unemployed, with little or no education and in poor health. Most reported the economic, health and social benefits brought about by receiving the pensions. Many noted improved food consumption and security, and access to income to pay for health care, education, transport, and other necessities. They reported enhanced self-esteem and participation in community affairs. However, problems of personal security and logistics of delivery of the pension were also mentioned. Suggestions to improve on the quality of delivery of the pension scheme are given. Bibliogr., sum. [Journal abstract] |
