The items, valued at GH¢100,000, were purchased using 3 percent of the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) allocated to the Disability Fund (DF).

The items includes deep freezers, welding tools, knitting machines, mobile money startup kits, hairdressing tools, shoemaking equipment, cosmetics, toiletries, gas stoves, and provisions to stock their shops.

This marks the sixth disbursement to PWDs in the municipality since 2019 and the presentation took place during a brief ceremony in Accra last Thursday.

The initiative aligns with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's vision to reduce poverty and enhance the social status of people with disabilities across the country.

Beneficiaries

Some of the beneficiaries were Akwasi Nyarko, Eyi Azamati, Theophilus Owusu Essel, Musah Nartey, Jeremiah Lamptey, Acquah Ahmed Andam, Elvis Alipui and Seth Ansah.

The rest are Ruth Yemoley Odoi, Eunice Koranteng, Lardi Abugri, Bernard Lamptey, Christiana Amegashie, Beatrice Ayebea Ayensu, George Amanotey Akpey, Julius Gbangab and Mumuni Umar.

The event was attended by Assembly Members, both elected and government appointees as well as head of departments and units.

Government commitment

Speaking at the event, the Municipal Chief Executive, Samuel Nii Adjei Tawiah emphasized the government's dedication to ensuring that people with disabilities across the country receive the necessary support to lead fulfilling lives.

"Today, we are fortunate to support our brothers and sisters for the sixth time here in the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, assisting those who, for various reasons, face challenges in supporting themselves, running businesses, or working like others," he said.

He continued, "The government recognizes the importance of supporting them, ensuring that they have the opportunity to reach the same level as the rest of us, so they can work, support themselves, and care for their families."

"It is very important to have a very dignified life by not having to knock on people's door before you feed yourself and your family. So this is a very important exercise that the Assembly is having to do today to support you," he added.

Prudent use

A representative from the National Council on Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), Elvis Kosi Alipui, who is also a beneficiary, urged his fellow recipients to use the provided items responsibly to support themselves and their dependents.

"We are here today to oversee the distribution of the 3% of the District Assembly Common Fund," he said. 
"The message to our members is clear: this fund is not for misuse. It is not a lottery. It is meant to help work towards reducing poverty among persons with disabilities and to improve their lives."

He expressed gratitude to the leadership of the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly and to the President for ensuring that people with disabilities are included in the sharing of national resources.

"I want us to give a big round of applause to this municipality for their outstanding efforts. We also thank the President of the Republic of Ghana for ensuring that we, too, are part of the Common Fund. Since 2019, we have not been left out."

Samuel Nii Adjei Tawiah, MCE of KoKMA and other members of the assembly with the beneficiaries after the event

However, he also made a plea for increased support: "We still want to appeal for more, as the 3 per cent allocation is too small given the size of our population. We now represent 10 per cent of Ghana's population."

Background

In 2005, the Government of Ghana established the Disability Fund (DF) as part of its efforts to empower persons with disabilities. Currently, the fund stands at 3 per cent of the District Assembly Common Fund.

The DF's primary objectives are to reduce poverty and enhance the social status of people with disabilities. It offers financial assistance, provides working tools, supports educational needs and helps with medical expenses for individuals in need.