The Asokwa Municipal Assembly in collaboration with Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations(GFD), on Friday 23rd December 2022, celebrated Thirty (30) Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
The Assembly through the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development disbursed some items to Ten (10) selected (PWDs).
This year’s celebration was themed “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fueling an accessible and equitable world”.
The associations present included the Ghana National Association of the Deaf, Ghana Society of Physically Disabled, Ghana Blind Union and Inclusion Ghana.
DISTRIBUTION:
Each of the PWDs was presented with bag of rice, cooking oil, toiletries and others.
The ten specially selected PWDs had disbursement from the disability common fund to assist them carry out income generating activities.
MUNICIPAL CHIEF EXECUTIVE:
Adddressing the PWDs, Chief Akwanuasah Gyimah, Municipal Chief Executive for Asokwa said he was impressed with the work of the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development.
He noted that PWDs in Asokwa do not take to begging as means to earn livelihoods, adding that brings him satisfaction.
Chief Akwannuasah assured them of government’s continued support.
“I do encourage you to work hard in order not to become a burden to the society but a blessing”, the MCE stated.
PRESIDING MEMBER:
Elliot Fosu Bannor, Presiding Member for Asokwa admonished PWDs who are not registered in any of the associations to be part of the various associations.
He noted that disability was not inability so they could achieve whatsoever they set their minds to.
EDUCATION DIRECTOR:
Rev. Ebenezer Oteng Marfo, Asokwa Municipal Director of Education said the government was committed to inclusive education.
He noted that a system was being worked on which seeks to put all possible measures in place to enable children with disability have access to education.
DIRECTOR OF SWCD:
Mr Dickson Frimpong, Asokwa Municipal Director for Social Welfare and Community Development commended the PWDs for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the year.
He urged them to keep up with their good attitude, adding that the Assembly will always strive to support them in the best way it could.
Mr Frimpong commended Olam Ghana, China Mall, Sunday International and Sethi brothers for sponsoring the event.
SCREENING:
Some officers from the Asokwa Directorate of the Ghana Health Service were present to offer free COVID-19 testing and screening.
STORY BY MICHAEL OFOSU-AFRIYIE, KUMASI.