Sixty-five members of the Ghana Blind Union in the Western Region have ushered in the new year with renewed optimism, following a social intervention that combined celebration with practical economic support.
The annual outreach, initiated by Nana Kwesi Coomson, Editor-in-Chief of the online news portal 233times.net, has grown beyond a ceremonial feast into a structured empowerment programme designed to strengthen independence among persons with visual impairment.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Mr. Coomson said the initiative was driven by the belief that inclusive development was essential to national progress. He explained that the project now focuses on equipping beneficiaries with resources to improve their livelihoods rather than offering one-off charitable support.
For the third year running, participants received financial assistance to either start small businesses or expand existing ventures. The supported enterprises range from the sale of local and healthy beverages, bakery products and popcorn, to charcoal trading and household cleaning supplies.
Mr. Coomson noted that these income-generating activities had enhanced self-reliance, boosted confidence and improved living standards among the beneficiaries. In addition to the economic support, all 65 union members and their guides were enrolled on the National Health Insurance Scheme to improve access to healthcare.
Describing the initiative as one rooted in empowerment, not sympathy, he expressed gratitude to individuals and organisations whose financial and advisory support had sustained the programme over the years. He singled out the Member of Parliament for Kwesimintsim, Mr. Fiifi Buckman, for sponsoring this year’s feast.
Members of the Ghana Blind Union expressed appreciation to the organisers and sponsors, describing the annual intervention as life-changing and a dependable source of hope that helps them begin each year with dignity and confidence.
