The NJSM distributed deep freezers, refrigerators, industrial sewing machines, and gave fi­nancial support to cover medical expenses of beneficiary.

This initiative was funded through the Disability Fund, part of the District Assembly’s Common Fund.

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for New Juaben South, Mr Isaac Appaw-Gyasi, said the move has significantly reduced the number of PWDs begging on the streets.

“Thanks to this government initiative, we no longer see PWDs begging in the municipality. By providing them with tools and fi­nancial assistance, we’ve enabled them to become self-sufficient and less dependent on their fami­lies,” the MMCE stated.

He emphasised the Assembly’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of PWDs, pledg­ing continued support for the programme initiated by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Ad­do, which has helped many PWDs across the country.

The Eastern Regional Director of Social Welfare, Mrs Josephine Dzokoto, praised the initiative for transforming the lives of many PWDs by helping them start small businesses.

“This initiative has empowered many to cater for their fami­lies, including paying for their children’s education. It has made a huge positive impact, ensuring that PWDs are not a burden on their families or society,” she said.

Mrs Dzokoto noted that to ensure the proper use of the resources, the Social Welfare Unit will conduct regular monitoring to verify that the items are being utilised as intended.

Ms Regina Bimpong, the Chairperson of the Disability Committee, in the New Juaben South Assembly, expressed gratitude to the MCE, and the Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Mr Okyere Baafi, for their unwavering support for PWDs in the area.

“We no longer see PWDs on the roadside begging for mon­ey because they have become a priority for the Assembly. We have provided them with tools to improve their economic well-be­ing, and we are grateful for the government’s efforts. We encour­age the government to continue and expand such initiatives,” Ms Bimpong stated.

Moreover, she noted that the distribution of items and finan­cial assistance formed the part of a broader effort to economically empower PWDs in the munici­pality.