In commemoration of the 2022 World Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Obawasi branch of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations has led the needs of its members in the planning and implementation of policies for the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies.
The 1992 Constitution ensures that the welfare and well-being of Ghanaians with various disabilities is guaranteed. Article 29 of the 1992 Constitution enjoins duty holders to ensure that all public places have adequate facilities for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
In addition, incentives should be given to PWDs engaged in business and organizations to employ them in significant numbers.
Then, the Constitution mandates Parliament to enact laws to ensure enforcement of provisions protecting PWDs.
The Persons with Disabilities Act, 2006 (Act 715) elaborates the provisions of the 1992 Constitution, ensuring seamless integration of PWDs into society and communities. Even a cursory reading of the Act shows that PWDs in Ghana should have no complaints if the Act is to be fully implemented.
Act 715 lays down the principles governing the functions of District Assemblies, which ensure the participation of the vulnerable in all spheres of activity and ensure their welfare and protection.
To achieve that, three percent of the District Assemblies’ Common Fund (DACF) is earmarked for PWDs in the districts, with the National Council of Persons with Disabilities providing guidelines for disbursement of funds.
The demand of the Obwasi branch of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations is valid and supported by law. In fact, two decades after the passage of Act 715, PWDs should not be forcing local authorities to do what they want.
Ghana must now build on the gains made in making the lives of PWDs more comfortable. This can be done with the commitment of duty bearers.
It is true that Ghana cannot address all the challenges that hinder the progress of those living with different types of disabilities. However, Daily Graphic believes that the nation is on the right track to achieve the goals.
We have rules and laws and, critically, we have integrated the welfare of PWDs into the local governance system. This is a good start, but we can do more.
For example, if the payment of DACF can be made timely so that people with disabilities can benefit in different communities across the country, it will go a long way in improving their lives.
Fortunately, the NCPD, under the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGWSP) has held meetings to bring together all within the ecosystem to further improve the progress being made so far towards achieving the country’s commitments towards PWDs.
It is a good effort, during the meetings, the resources committed to improve the lives of PWDs, as well as the policy directory, partners, programs and goals in line with the medium-term national development policy framework are discussed and explained.
It is Daily Graphic’s hope and expectation that the Ministry of Finance commits the necessary resources to ensure that all these efforts yield the required results.
In reality, including the concerns and challenges of PWDs in our development processes and efforts is a plus for Ghana.
We must remember that disability can happen to anyone and at any time. So let us commit to ensure that the inclusion criteria for PWDs is maintained.
Source: graphic.com.gh
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