By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has received a delegation from the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations (GFD) as part of efforts to deepen collaboration toward improving disability-inclusive policies and social protection services in the country.
The delegation, led by GFD President Mr. Joseph Atsu Humadzi, marks the second engagement between the Federation and the Minister following earlier discussions on expanding access to social protection interventions, strengthening inclusive education, and enhancing services for children, caregivers, and persons with disabilities.
During the meeting, the GFD renewed its call for a comprehensive review and re-enactment of the Persons with Disability Act to align fully with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). The delegation also underscored the need to upgrade rehabilitation and vocational training centres nationwide to boost skills development and improve employability. They proposed the introduction of disability employment quotas as part of broader efforts to expand job opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The delegation further highlighted the importance of intensified stakeholder education, improved coordination among state institutions, and the adoption of strategies that address the diverse needs of different disability groups. They emphasized that unity within the disability movement is essential to strengthen advocacy, especially in a context of limited resources.
Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, commended the Federation for its commitment to sustained engagement and reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities. She assured the delegation that the concerns raised would be factored into ongoing policy reforms and programme reviews. She further noted that disability issues remain a government priority under the leadership of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama.
