Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection Reaffirms Commitment to Persons with Disabilities
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection has reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to supporting Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), outlining ongoing efforts to expand social protection interventions, improve accessibility, and strengthen disability-inclusive policies nationwide.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement and policy review meeting, the Minister emphasized that disability inclusion remains central to Ghana’s social development agenda. She highlighted the need for coordinated national strategies to address the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities, including limited access to healthcare, education, employment opportunities, and public infrastructure.
The Ministry is currently working with district assemblies, civil society organizations, and development partners to enhance the effective disbursement of the Disability Fund under the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). This fund provides financial support for small businesses, mobility aids, educational sponsorships, and essential assistive devices.
The Minister noted that despite progress, challenges such as inadequate data on PWDs, insufficient public awareness, and infrastructural limitations continue to hinder full inclusion. To address these concerns, the Ministry is developing a national framework that will guide disability mainstreaming in schools, hospitals, markets, and public offices.
She also commended disability organizations for their advocacy, stressing that their input is vital in shaping effective policies. The Ministry plans to strengthen collaboration with groups such as the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), mental health advocates, and specialized training institutions.
Another priority highlighted was improving early childhood intervention and community-based rehabilitation services. The Minister underscored the importance of early diagnosis and support for children with special needs, noting that families must receive adequate guidance and resources to ensure proper care.
In the area of employment, the Ministry is engaging private sector institutions to encourage workplace diversity and inclusive recruitment processes. Plans are also underway to promote digital skills training for young persons with disabilities, enabling them to take advantage of emerging technology-driven job opportunities.
The Minister reaffirmed that government is committed to implementing the Disability Act more effectively. She emphasized that accessibility to buildings, transportation, and public services is not optional but a legal requirement. Enforcement mechanisms are being strengthened to ensure compliance across public and private institutions.
Participants at the event welcomed the renewed commitment, urging government to ensure that policies translate into practical changes on the ground. They called for more community-level sensitization to reduce stigma and promote equal participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of national life.
The Ministry assured stakeholders that disability inclusion will remain a priority through 2025 and beyond, with a focus on practical, measurable improvements aimed at promoting dignity, equality, and empowerment.
