The world’s population is steadily ageing. In the next 30 years, the number of persons aged 60 years and above is projected to cross 6 million in Uganda. There are a number of challenges facing the current generation of older people, the majority of whom live in rural areas: widespread illiteracy, landlessness, food insecurity, poor health, neglect and abuse by younger generations. In early 2018, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD) of Uganda commissioned an in-depth situational analysis of older persons with an aim to promote their rights both nationally and globally. The study used a mixed methodology: in-depth literature review, primary qualitative research and quantitative analysis of existing national datasets. The analysis draws upon the capabilities framework, which provides for a contextual and historical understanding of how past events and persistent structural constraints limit the capabilities of older persons today, i.e. their ability to pursue a life they can value. Even so, as the study shows, older persons actively contribute to their families, communities and their country to remain relevant and autonomous.