Some Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) who received support from the assemblyman
The Assemblyman for Kpongunor-South Electoral Area in the Lower Manya Krobo Municipality of the Eastern Region has called for collaborative efforts and innovative initiatives to empower Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) through skills training and economic opportunities.
John Tetteh Atter is urging all stakeholders to join forces to establish job opportunities for persons living with disabilities to empower them financially and enhance their independence.
“I’m calling on all stakeholders to come on board and join hands with me to create job opportunities for them [PWDs] so they can earn a living,” said the Assemblyman. “They need work that not only sustains them but allows them to contribute meaningfully to society.”
He made these remarks on Easter Monday, April 21, 2024, after distributing rice to over 50 physically challenged individuals as part of this year’s Easter celebrations.
With many PWDs lacking sustainable sources of income, the assemblyman encouraged them to take advantage of skills training and employment opportunities rather than relying solely on societal benevolence for survival.
He also decried the mistreatment often directed at PWDs by relatives, drivers, and some trainers, urging the public to treat the physically challenged with greater care and respect.
Atter specifically appealed to commercial drivers to show patience and assist PWDs when boarding vehicles, noting that such support would help them travel more comfortably and with dignity.
Solomon K. Baah, Secretary to the PWDs in Lower Manya Krobo, outlined the challenges faced by over 200 PWDs in the area—including the visually impaired, physically challenged, deaf and mute, and persons with albinism. He identified access to startup capital as a major obstacle.
“We have received some skills training, but what we lack is startup capital,” said Baah.
He called for an increased allocation of the disability portion of the District Assembly Common Fund, suggesting that a regular monthly stipend would significantly help affected individuals.
Baah also highlighted transportation challenges, noting that many drivers are reluctant to pick up PWDs, often leaving them stranded by the roadside.
