Inclusive Policies in Ghana Urged to Address Gender-Based Violence Against Disabled Women.

Accra: Dr. Augustina Naami, a Lecturer at the Department of Social Work, University of Ghana, has advocated for inclusive policies aimed at ending Gender-Based Violence (GBV) against women and girls with disabilities. She emphasized that such policies should encompass interventions, prevention, response, and development to address the unique needs and challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities.According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Naami shared her insights during a stakeholder engagement event in Accra, organized by VOWAC Ghana in collaboration with German Cooperation Deutschezsammenarbeit (GIZ). The event, which also marked the International Day of Persons with Disability and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, highlighted the need for improved systems for inclusive reporting on GBV.The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that there are approximately 1.3 billion persons with disabilities worldwide, with 80 percent residing in developing countries, including about five mi llion in Ghana. Dr. Naami raised concerns that women and girls with disabilities are twice as likely to experience multiple forms of violence, often suffering in silence as these abuses and traumas escalate.She emphasized that a one-size-fits-all approach to intervention is inadequate, as even within the group of women with disabilities, there is diversity that must be recognized and addressed. Dr. Naami identified barriers such as social exclusion, communication challenges, and limited access to healthcare and the justice system that need to be dismantled to integrate individuals with disabilities into society effectively.Ms. Abena Serwaa Opare, Head of the Social Welfare Department and Community Development at Mfantseman Municipal Assembly, underscored the importance of implementing socially inclusive policies and laws for persons with disabilities. She advocated for increased support and empowerment, encouraging vulnerable individuals to voice their challenges and report issues when necessary.Mr. Jos hua Addy, Acting National Coordinator of the National Council on Persons with Disability, reiterated the Council's commitment to improving the lives of persons with disabilities. He highlighted partnerships with stakeholders, including the public and private sectors as well as development partners, to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for disabled individuals.Madam Evelyn Appiah, Principal State Attorney, called for heightened awareness and understanding of the specific forms of violence faced by vulnerable groups, including physical, psychological, emotional, and economic abuse. She stressed the need for an inclusive justice system that is accessible and supportive of survivors with disabilities, reaffirming the commitment to combating GBV in all its forms and breaking barriers that hinder disabled women and children from assuming leadership roles.