By Eunice Hilda A. Mensah
Accra, April 29, GNA – Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, has assured persons living with disabilities, particularly amputees, of government’s commitment to addressing their concerns and improving their welfare.
She said the government, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, was determined to implement policies that would promote inclusion, accessibility and dignity for all persons with disabilities.
“On behalf of the President, I give you my full assurance that the government, through the Ministry, will work on these issues and ensure that we give you feedback,” she added.
Dr. Lartey gave the assurance at an amputee awareness walk and disability sensitisation programme organised by Smiles of Hope in Accra.
The event formed part of activities to mark ‘Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness’ Month, observed globally in April to celebrate the resilience of amputees, raise awareness and advocate equitable access to care and support.
The Minister noted that the programme was not just a ceremonial walk but a strong statement of solidarity, compassion and commitment to inclusion.
Although many cases of limb loss were preventable, she said stigma and systemic barriers continued to worsen the challenges faced by amputees in Ghana.
“Despite their resilience, many amputees face hidden struggles that affect their daily independence and mental health, and these are our brothers and sisters who deserve better support systems to live fulfilling lives,” she said.
Dr. Lartey highlighted key government interventions, including plans to strengthen disability policies through free tertiary education for persons with disabilities, improved rehabilitation services and the enforcement of a five per cent employment quota in both public and private sectors.
She also reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing reforms under a new disability framework to enhance inclusion and access to opportunities.
Madam Valeria Adzatia, Founder and Director of Smiles of Hope, who presented a petition to the Ministry, called for urgent interventions to address the challenges faced by amputees.
She said since 2019, the organisation had worked with more than 2,000 amputees, providing counselling, rehabilitation support and skills training, however significant gaps remained.
Madam Adzatia outlined major concerns, including the high cost of prosthetic limbs, lack of structured psychological support, limited economic opportunities, inaccessible public infrastructure and the absence of comprehensive national data on amputees.
“These challenges are not just medical; they are social, economic and issues of human dignity,” she added and called on government to establish a National Prosthetic Support Scheme, and integrate mental health services into amputee care.
She also appealed for the enforcement of disability-friendly infrastructure laws and develop a national amputee registry to guide policy decisions.
Madam Adzatia emphasised that amputees were not seeking charity but equal opportunities and inclusion in national development.
“There is life after amputation, but that life must be supported by systems that work,” she said.
The event brought together amputees, advocacy groups, health professionals and members of the public to promote awareness and push for inclusive development.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba
By Eunice Hilda A. Mensah