Disability rights advocate Humphrey Matey Kofie is calling for stronger, clearer rules on accessibility in Ghana’s new Persons with Disability Bill. He believes the current law, the Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715), has not done enough. Many persons with disabilities still face significant obstacles in their daily lives. This is because the existing law lacks specific details on how to make places and services accessible. Mr. Kofie spoke out on JoyNews' The Law program on June 7.
The proposed new bill offers a chance to fix problems in the old law. These problems include accessibility standards and how to make sure rules are followed. Mr. Kofie explained that Act 715 recognizes accessibility is important. However, it does not give clear instructions. It doesn't tell public buildings, companies, or builders exactly what they must do. This means equal access for persons with disabilities is not guaranteed. Mr. Kofie stated that employers must make sure people with disabilities have what they need to work well. He feels the 2006 Act does not cover this well.
This effort ties into Ghana’s wider goal to follow the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). The UNCRPD focuses more on accessibility and removing barriers. It aims for everyone to participate fully in society. Many public buildings in Ghana still lack basic ramps, lifts, or special toilets. This is happening even though laws exist to improve access. Mr. Kofie is worried that new buildings are also being built without these important features. This raises questions about whether current rules are being obeyed. It also shows a lack of awareness among those who design and build things, such as architects and contractors. More than 3.5 million Ghanaians live with some form of disability, according to various reports, making this a significant issue for a large part of the population’s economic and social participation.
The advocate also pointed to problems in public transport. He stressed that buses and trains must be designed from the start for people with disabilities. Government agencies that approve building projects must ensure accessibility is part of the plans. These rules must be strictly enforced during construction. Mr. Kofie said, "We need to make a conscious effort, and that effort must be intentional. Contractors and ministries must ensure accessibility considerations are captured in project designs before construction begins." Clearer rules and stronger enforcement in the new bill will remove barriers. This will help people with disabilities join in education, work, travel, and public life more fully. These changes will greatly strengthen disability rights in Ghana.