The Ayawaso East Municipal Assembly has supported 51 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) with business equipment and financial assistance. This initiative falls under the government’s Disability Fund, marking the assembly’s 10th disbursement from the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF).
The support package included essential items such as deep freezers, industrial sewing machines, and popcorn machines. Beneficiaries also received industrial washing machines, poly tanks, and wheelchairs. Additionally, cash grants were provided for business start-ups, medical expenses, and educational support, directly addressing their diverse needs.
This program is part of a broader national effort to promote economic inclusion and improve the livelihoods of PWDs. The government recently increased the allocation to the Disability Fund from 3% to 5% of the DACF. This increase allows municipal assemblies like Ayawaso East to expand their reach and clear backlogs of applications, impacting more vulnerable citizens.
Mr. Baba Jamal, the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso East, commended the increased allocation. He stated, “We have more than 200 persons with disabilities in the Ayawaso East Municipality, and we intend to cover all of them before the end of this year.” The assembly, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department, has initiated a fresh needs assessment to identify additional beneficiaries for the next disbursement phase, expected between October and November.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. Ibrahim Ganiyu, explained the rigorous selection process. He noted that the Municipal Social Welfare Committee conducts thorough verification, including home visits to assess living conditions and business needs. This ensures that support is directed to those who genuinely require it and can make the most of the assistance.
Ms. Lydia Winifred, the Municipal Social Welfare Officer, urged beneficiaries to use the equipment for its intended purpose of long-term economic empowerment. She highlighted that many past beneficiaries have successfully built businesses by properly utilizing similar support. This emphasis aims to prevent the sale of equipment for short-term financial gain, ensuring sustainable impact.
The National Coordinator of the National Council on Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), Mr. Joshua Addy, praised the assembly’s efforts. He stressed that access to livelihood support is crucial for promoting independent living among PWDs. He referenced International Labour Organisation (ILO) principles, which advocate for equal access to opportunities and productive resources for PWDs to contribute to national development.
The commitment to reach all registered PWDs by year-end signals a significant step towards greater inclusivity in the municipality. The increased funding and structured verification process are critical for the program's success. This initiative will likely inspire other assemblies to enhance their support for PWDs, fostering broader economic participation across Ghana.