Pensioners enlist media support for their welfare

Retired government employees have called on the media to play an advocacy role towards improving their living conditions. The call was made by the Legal Representative of the Rwanda Association of Retired Persons, Andrew Gisagara. He was addressing journalists, representatives of various civil society organizations and other development partners, in a meeting aimed at strengthening the association’s platform. “It may be true that relevant or concerned parties may not be aware of what we are going through, but the only way to inform them is when we create a strong partnership with you (media) so that you deliver our message,” Gisagara said. A recent survey conducted by the association in collaboration with the National University of Rwanda (NUR), indicated that the deteriorating social welfare of retired public servants may be due to the monthly pension they receive which does not rhyme with the current cost of living. During the meeting, participants discussed measures or steps that can be taken to have a strong platform and sound advocacy. The association used the meeting to screen a film that shows the challenges pensioners are going through, and according to Gisagara, it all rotates around their financial incapacity. Gisagara said pensioners do not only earn little, but the duration or interval they get it is so difficult to make ends meet. “The lowest amount some pensioners receive is Rwf 5,200 per month, but they have to wait for three months before getting their package,” he said. grace.mugoya@newtimes.co.rw Ends