Fifty-three persons with disabilities in the Ada West District have received financial support, equipment and assistive devices from the district assembly under the Disability Fund.
The support formed part of the District Assemblies’ Common Fund, with three per cent of the allocation reserved for persons with disabilities to promote inclusion, economic empowerment and social protection.
Out of the beneficiaries, 11 received business and economic support, while 30 were provided with equipment to support their livelihoods. Six beneficiaries each also received educational assistance and health-related support, including assistive devices.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Mr Mordjifa Tanihu Jerry John Foreigner Mills-Nkrumah, the Ada West District Chief Executive, said the exercise reflected the assembly’s commitment to social justice and equal opportunities for all residents.
He described the disability fund as an important intervention that helps persons with disabilities improve their standard of living and become more independent.
According to him, the support goes beyond the distribution of funds and items, as it is intended to give beneficiaries hope and the means to contribute positively to society.
Mr Mills-Nkrumah noted that many persons with disabilities have the skills and potential to contribute to national development, but often face social and economic barriers that limit their opportunities.
He therefore called for stronger support from families, community leaders and the wider public to help eliminate stigma, discrimination and exclusion.
The District Chief Executive also commended the District Disability Fund Management Committee for ensuring fairness and transparency in the selection process.
He urged beneficiaries to use the support wisely, especially for income-generating activities, so they could become self-reliant and improve their living conditions.
Mr Mills-Nkrumah further highlighted the importance of education for persons with disabilities, saying the fund plays a key role in helping them access schooling from the basic to tertiary level without financial difficulty.
The event was attended by the Member of Parliament for Sege, Mr Daniel Keshi Bessey, the Presiding Member, assembly members, heads of departments, members of the Disability Fund Management Committee and representatives of persons with disabilities.
