Strengthening Disability Inclusion: The Push for Increased PWDs Quota in DACF

As Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections, interest groups and associations are urging prospective governments to address their concerns.

One notable group that has been overlooked is persons with disabilities (PWDs), who constitute 8% of Ghana’s population (2,098,138 individuals, according to the 2021 Population and Housing Census).

PWDs struggle to access opportunities in the economic system, with many turning to begging on streets.

Most struggle to get three square meals a day, prompting calls on the government to provide support.

Current Support Insufficient

The government has set aside 3% of the District Assemblies Common Fund to support PWDs in education, skills training, health needs, startup funds,  equipments among others .

 However, most PWDs are left behind due to the insufficient quota.

Civil Society Organizations Demand Change

With the 2024 elections approaching, civil society organizations, including Journalist in Social Protection (JISOP), SEND Ghana, International Loins Club, among many others, are calling on political leaders to increase the quota for PWDs in the common fund.

The Kwadaso Example

The Federation of Persons With Disability in Kwadaso Municipality has 300 registered members, with only 160 receiving support from the Assemblies common fund in 2024.

Chairman John Nicholas Mensah appeals for an increase in the fund to support all members.

A Life of Struggle

Maame Akua Taako, a 58-year-old crippled for nearly a decade at Atwima Denkyemuoso , barely eats due to lack of income and family support.

She struggles to sustain her small business selling chalco, forcing her to beg on streets.

 With support, she hopes to expand her business and end her reliance on begging.

The Way Forward

To empower PWDs, the government must:

1. Increase the quota for PWDs in the District Assemblies Common Fund.

2. Provide accessible education and skills training programs.

3. Ensure affordable healthcare services for PWDs.

4. Offer startup funds and entrepreneurship support.

5. Promote inclusive policies and infrastructure development.

As Ghana heads to the polls in 2024, it is crucial that PWDs are not forgotten. Their voices must be heard, and their concerns addressed. The time to act is now.

Join the Conversation

Share your thoughts on how to empower PWDs in Ghana. Use the hashtag #EmpowerPWDsGhana to join the conversation on social media.

Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Jacob Agyenim Boateng