Presenter(s):

KOSSA VIVIANE; YEFFEY PACOME, MINISTRY OF EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL PROTECTION, Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Kossa Viviane is a Senior Administrator of Labor and Social Laws and has served as Director of Social Action since March 2018. She plays a key role in developing and implementing social policies in collaboration with multiple ministries.
Her work focuses on reducing social exclusion, addressing vulnerabilities, and improving access to social protection for fragile populations. She oversees public and private social institutions, supervises specialized social services, and supports individuals facing social difficulties.
She also leads programs that promote and protect the rights of the elderly and provide aid to disadvantaged and indigent groups. Kossa Viviane contributes actively to shaping laws and regulations concerning the rights of vulnerable people.
In November 2019, she took part in a regional workshop in Kigali, Rwanda, on long-term elderly care under the Decade of Healthy Ageing 2030.
Dedicated and committed, she has built her career on the values of social justice and human dignity.

Bio(s):

Population aging is a major global challenge. According to the WHO, by 2030, one in six people will be over 60, and by 2050, this group will reach 2.1 billion individuals. The number of people over 80 will triple, reaching 426 million. Côte d’Ivoire is following this trend, with more than 1.2 million elderly people, or 4.2% of its population, according to the 2021 census.
Demographic aging has significant implications in multiple sectors.
In healthcare, it increases the demand for medical services and appropriate infrastructure. Older people are more prone to chronic illnesses, leading to higher healthcare costs. It is essential to improve preventive care, healthcare service organization, and provide suitable health coverage.
Socially, demand is growing for home care services, temporary housing, and support for caregivers. These services must be developed and made accessible to preserve the dignity and independence of older adults.
Economically, population aging affects the labor market. A declining workforce causes labor shortages, wage pressures, and slower economic growth. Measures are needed to retain seniors in employment, promote continuous training, and combat age-related discrimination to maintain their economic contribution.
Pension systems face increasing pressure. The imbalance between contributors and retirees threatens the sustainability of pay-as-you-go systems. Necessary reforms include adjusting the retirement age, diversifying income sources for retirees, and reinforcing intergenerational solidarity to prevent elderly poverty.
In response to these challenges, Côte d’Ivoire has undertaken several reforms.
Institutionally, the government has established a sub-directorate for the elderly, reformed social security institutions, introduced Universal Health Coverage (CMU), and created specific schemes for self-employed workers and civil servants. A compendium of senior citizens’ skills was launched, and a national policy for older people is being developed, focused on financial security, access to healthcare, family solidarity, and institutional improvements.
Operationally, multiple initiatives are underway: health and social assistance, establishment of geriatric units, training of gerontologists, awareness campaigns, recreational activities, support for retirees’ associations, and promotion of intergenerational knowledge sharing. There is also advocacy for integrating older people into local policy planning.
In summary, population aging in Côte d’Ivoire is a growing reality. The government’s response demonstrates a commitment to inclusion, social equity, and recognition of the rights of the elderly. Turning this demographic shift into an opportunity requires continued investment in public health, education, and social cohesion.