The Yilo Krobo Municipal Assembly in the Eastern Region has increased support for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The number of beneficiaries has risen from 74 last year to 108 this year.
The initiative is part of government efforts to reduce poverty and empower PWDs economically.
Beneficiaries received items to start or expand their businesses. These included 22 chest freezers, 4 double-door fridges, 17 fufu processing machines, 11 cassava processing machines, and 10 Polytanks. Some also received cash support.
This is the second time the Assembly is supporting PWDs this year. The goal is to improve their living conditions and reduce dependence on others.
The Chairperson for Persons with Disabilities in Yilo Krobo, Madam Vida Niine Awaitey, said government support has improved. She noted that the share of the District Assemblies Common Fund for PWDs has increased.
She added that zonal representatives will monitor beneficiaries to ensure the items are put to good use.
“We are not happy that it is not being done quarterly. They should improve the frequency to ensure that as many people as possible are covered,” she said.
The Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Francis Akumatey, said some beneficiaries preferred cash. For that reason, the number of physical items shared was smaller.
“We considered the individual requests of beneficiaries when deciding the form of support,” he explained.
He advised beneficiaries to use the support wisely.
“Make the best of what you have received so that we can do more,” he said.
He also praised leaders of disability groups for promoting transparency in the selection process and publicizing the programme.
The Director of Social Welfare and Community Development, Naa-Afua Tertey, said the intervention promotes inclusion, dignity, social justice, and economic empowerment of PWDs.
Beneficiaries hope government will continue the initiative so that no PWD is left behind.
By David Ayertey Nenebi
