By Ibrahim Mohammed Saani
Ashaiman, Oct 05, GNA – The Social Welfare and Community Development Department of the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly (ASHMA) has disbursed funds to 47 persons with disabilities (PWDs) to support their economic independence.
The disbursement occurred at the Assembly, following notifications sent to qualified individuals by the Ashaiman Disability Committee.
The initiative aims to empower beneficiaries to be self-reliant and less dependent on external support.
Mr. Albert Boakye Okyere, the Ashaiman Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), explained that the Disability Common Fund is disbursed quarterly, expressing optimism that the number of beneficiaries would increase over time as more people became eligible for support.
Mr. Okyere encouraged recipients to use the funds wisely to derive the expected benefit for themselves and their families.
He stressed that illnesses and accidents are unpredictable, and more people will continue to seek assistance; therefore, the funds must be managed prudently to ensure they have lasting positive effects.
He praised the government’s dedication to supporting vulnerable groups, adding that he hoped future fund allocations would increase to provide more resources, tools, and equipment for beneficiaries.
He also lauded those who chose equipment over cash, noting that such decisions would foster self-reliance rather than dependence.
Mr. Courage Wormenor, the Vice President of the Ghana Federation of the Disabled (GFD), revealed that there are over 4,000 PWDs in Ashaiman, noting however that the committee in charge of the disbursement receives between GHC 24,000 and GHC 30,000 per quarter, which limits the amount available for distribution.
Mr. Wormenor emphasised that despite the limited funds, recipients should focus on using it to initiate income-generating activities, indicating that it is better to receive a small amount and make productive use of it than not receiving any support at all.
He said although the funds are limited, this year’s distribution has been among the best, as according to him, the accumulated disbursements for the year were distributed among the 47 selected beneficiaries.
He urged the recipients to utilise it well, indicating that future disbursements would be directed to others.
Mr. Felix Kwame Agbeko, a beneficiary who operates a mechanic shop, expressed gratitude for finally receiving the fund after applying in 2018.
He applauded the Assembly’s continuous efforts to assist PWDs, noting that while many beneficiaries may appear physically vulnerable, they possess strong and capable minds.
He noted that he would use the funds to purchase motor and bicycle spare parts to expand his shop, which is currently facing a shortage of those items.
GNA