According to ghana news agency:ccording to Ghana News Agency, Mr. James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, emphasized the government’s commitment to eliminating discrimination by ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens. Speaking at a stakeholder engagement workshop organized by the Women with Disability Development and Advocacy Organisation (WODAO) in Ho, Mr. Gunu highlighted that disability should not be seen as an inability, and it is essential to develop systems that cater to the needs of persons with disabilities.
The workshop, themed ‘Fostering Strategic Alliances to Promote the Rights of Women with Disabilities in Development,’ was organized in collaboration with Sightsavers International, ABAK Foundation, and funded by the European Commission. Mr. Gunu underscored the importance of inclusive development, stating that MMDAs are expected to facilitate the participation of persons with disabilities in local governance.
He also mentioned President Mahama’s declaration that first-year university students will not be required to pay academic user fees, with free tertiary education for persons with disabilities. This policy acknowledges the significant presence of persons with disabilities in Ghana, constituting about 10% of the population.
Madam Veronica Denyo Kofiedu, Executive Director of WODAO, expressed optimism about the direct payment to the DACF, which would enhance the allocation to persons with disabilities at the MMDAs. She emphasized the importance of strategic collaboration in achieving inclusive policies and noted that WODAO has been actively working to strengthen its internal systems and advocacy efforts.
Mr. Augustus Awity, former Regional Chief Director at the VRCC, reminded attendees of the importance of amplifying the voices of persons with disabilities and ensuring their access to opportunities and resources. Mr. David Agyeman, Country Director of Sightsavers, highlighted the organization’s efforts in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities and preventing avoidable blindness.
Mr. George Edem Kofiedu, Project Officer of WODAO, called for inclusive budgets and stronger collaborations with media partners to amplify the voices of women with disabilities. He urged participants to build diverse coalitions and share evidence of barriers and successes to avoid isolation.
The event featured messages from various civil society organizations, including the Ghana Federation of Persons with Disabilities and the African Disability Institute, emphasizing the collective effort needed to drive meaningful change and inclusion.