Sunyani (Brong Ahafo), 29th April ?99 ?

The government and the World Bank have initiated a state pension scheme to cover all category of workers in the country, including those in the informal sector.

A consultant working on the scheme has presented his report to the government for approval, after which the scheme would become operational.

This was disclosed by Mr Kofi Agyarey, Brong Ahafo Regional Manager Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), at the inauguration of the regional branch of Care Elderly, a non-governmental organisation, at Sunyani on Wednesday.

Mr Agyarey said this is in recognition of the need for the proper care of the aged who, during their active life, contributed to the development of the country.

It would also help provide adequate support to the elderly in view of the gradual break-down of the extended family system, under which care for the aged was the responsibility of the entire family and indeed the whole community.

The Deputy Regional Minister, Alhaji Kwadwo Maama Adam, noted with concern, the "gradual but painful break-down of some of our cherished and time-honoured culture", including the extended family system.

He called on the people to make the comfort and support of the aged their collective responsibility and not to allow foreign cultures to destroy the good cultural norms and values of the country.

Alhaji Adam said the government would continue to create the enabling environment for all stakeholders to contribute their quota towards making life more enjoyable for the aged.

He advised Care Elderly Ghana to create a recreational centre for the aged, where they could meet, converse and play games, while the active members of the family go about their economic activities.

GRi./