It is aimed at gathering over 250 persons with disabilities (PWDS), experts, donor agencies, and stakeholders from various sectors to address the challenges faced by PWDs in Ghana and neighbouring countries.

It would serve as a platform for PWDs to share experiences, gain knowledge, and develop innovative solutions for a more inclusive society, and the focus would be on raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and fostering collaborations.

The two-day event would feature workshops, plenary sessions, networking opportunities, and the launch of a regional PWD empowerment programme.
It is being organised by the Sustainable Development In Africa (S-DIA) Advocacy, Limited by Guarantee (LBG) in collaboration with the National Council of Persons with Disability under the auspices of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and The Sedofa Consultancy.

Mr. Kweku Kakah, the Executive Director of S-DIA Advocacy LBG, in a statement said the conference, INPEWDEC 2024, "comes at a time when the rights of persons with disabilities need urgent attention."
He said by creating a platform for dialogue, we are not only raising awareness but also building a community of advocates and policymakers committed to driving actionable change.

"This is about inclusivity, equity, and ensuring every person with a disability has the support and opportunities they need to thrive," Mr Kakah stated.
He said PWDs in Ghana, representing eight per cent of the population, continued to face significant barriers including limited access to education, healthcare, employment, and social inclusion.

"The INPEWDEC aims to address these issues by fostering dialogue and action to create a more accessible and equitable environment for PWDs," he noted

The conference will therefore highlight the importance of inclusive infrastructure, policies, and support systems while offering PWDs the opportunity to showcase their talents and receive special awards for their contributions to society.

Mr. Kakah added, "The challenges faced by PWDs are not just physical, but systemic. Many public and private buildings in Ghana remain inaccessible, and discrimination continues to limit opportunities in education and employment."

"This conference is our way of coming together to find solutions that will break down these barriers and build a future that embraces diversity and accessibility for all."

The conference will bring together stakeholders from various sectors, including technology, finance, health, education, and civil society, to collaborate on actionable solutions for empowering PWDs.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore innovations in assistive technologies, as well as gain insights from motivational talks and success stories of PWDs who have achieved remarkable milestones.

GNA

PSGH calls on government to address its grievances to safeguard healthcare delivery

PSGH calls on govt to address its grievances

October 3, 2024/GNA

By Stanley Senya

Accra, Oct. 3, GNA - The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH), has called on the government to address its concerns to enable them deliver effective healthcare for Ghanaians.

A statement issued by PSGH and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra said the government should expedite the formal integration of community pharmacies into the national primary healthcare system.

With over 5,000 pharmacies nationwide, these facilities are well-positioned to serve as primary healthcare access points, especially in underserved areas.

It said a "Pharmacy First policy" should be adopted to recognize community pharmacies as the first port of call for minor illnesses, adding that, the integration should include data capture and storage within the national health database, as well as involvement in public health interventions such as malaria control, HIV/AIDS management, and national immunization campaigns.

The statement said government must address the shortage of pharmacists in public sector hospitals to ensure equitable access to pharmaceutical care across the country.

This, it said can be done by recruiting at least 1,000 pharmacists to fill existing vacancies in already operating hospitals and improve conditions of service, especially in underserved regions.

It further called on government to address the delays in financial clearance and postings for pharmacy house officers, and also review the policy concerning Over-the-Counter Medicine Shops, particularly in urban and suburban areas.

Additionally, it urged the government to take decisive action to end galamsey, protect water resources, and ensure the sustainability of local pharmaceutical production, which is vital for affordable and accessible primary healthcare.

It encouraged the public to engage with pharmacists for expert advice on medication and all health related concerns.

"Whenever you visit a pharmacy, ask to speak with the pharmacist, as they are committed to providing personalized, patient-centered care," it added.