The government appointee for persons with disabilities at the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly, Christiana Efua Quansah has stressed the association’s unwavering commitment to championing the rights of persons with disabilities and ensuring strict compliance with the law.
She underscored the pressing need for immediate action, citing the alarming situation where numerous institutions and organizations brazenly flout the law without facing consequences.
In a related development, the Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly’s National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) is developing a comprehensive disaster mitigation plan specifically designed to address the unique needs of persons with disabilities (PWDs) within the Sekondi Takoradi Metropolis.
Pursuant to the Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715), public buildings are required to be equipped with disability-friendly facilities. However, many Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies have failed to comply.
In response, Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly NADMO has devised a disaster mitigation plan tailored to the needs of PWDs in the Sekondi Takoradi Metropolis.
The plan, presented by NADMO’s Public Relations Officer, Emma Akosua Boafo, addresses the unique challenges faced by PWDs during disasters.
“Our proposal seeks to establish a collaborative framework with key stakeholders, including the Department of Social Welfare, assembly members, and the assembly, to develop a centralized database of individuals with disabilities within our communities.
This database will serve as a vital tool, informing our decision-making processes and ensuring that our initiatives are tailored to meet the unique needs of persons with disabilities, thereby promoting inclusivity and enhancing our support services.” She explained.
The government appointee for persons with disabilities, Christiana Efua Quansah has reaffirmed her association’s commitment to advocating for the amendment and enforcement of the Disabilities Act.
She emphasized that non-compliance would result in penalties and underscored the association’s dedication to championing PWDs’ rights.
“Despite the Disability Act’s provision of a ten-year grace period for organizations to achieve compliance, no meaningful progress has been made. We continue to advocate for the amendment of the Act to introduce compulsory prosecution for non-compliance.
Furthermore, we are urging government institutions and organizations to prioritize accessibility and inclusivity by creating designated spaces for persons with disabilities and constructing ramps that meet the necessary standards. We also encourage individuals requiring assistance to reach out to their local assemblies for support.” Christiana Efua Quansah stated.
Meanwhile, at the second ordinary meeting of the first session of the ninth Sekondi- Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly, Mayor Abdul Mumin Issah announced that the assembly has earmarked GH¢150,000 to procure equipment supporting persons with disabilities in the metropolis.
“A significant allocation of the 150,000 will be dedicated to acquiring equipment and tools for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), in response to their specific requests. These requests encompass a range of items, including deep freezers to enable the sale of ice water and generate income, as well as fufu pounding machines, corn mill machines, and other vital equipment. We will procure and distribute these essential items to empower the PWDs and support their economic endeavors.”
By Ebenezer Atiemo
