By Emmanuel Gamson
Mpohor (W/R), July 27, GNA – The Mpohor-Fiase District Assembly in the Western Region has distributed livelihood support items and cash grants to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the district to improve their socio-economic well-being and promote their financial independence.
The support was funded through the PWD allocation of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), which had been increased from 3 per cent to 5 percent by the government.
The increase formed part of the government’s commitment to expand social protection, promote inclusive development, reduce poverty among persons with disabilities, and empower them to become economically self-reliant through sustainable livelihood interventions.
Madam Sophia Aubyn, the Mpohor-Fiase District Chief Executive (DCE), during the presentation of the items at Mpohor, said the Assembly had a responsibility to ensure that monies allocated under the PWD Fund were utilised for its intended purpose, and directly benefited persons with disabilities in the area.
She said: “The presentation forms part of the Assembly’s ongoing efforts to empower persons with disabilities, promote social inclusion, and ensure that no one is left behind in the district’s development agenda.”
She urged the beneficiaries to make prudent use of the items and financial support to establish or expand their livelihoods, cautioning them against selling the items for short-term financial gains.
Mr Kofi Bentil, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Mpohor- Fiase, reaffirmed government’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare and living conditions of persons with disabilities.
He noted that the increase in the DACF allocation from 3 to 5 per cent demonstrated President John Dramani Mahama administration’s determination to provide greater support for vulnerable groups across the country.
He encouraged the beneficiaries to make good use of the support received and expressed appreciation to the management of the Assembly, particularly the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, for diligently identifying persons with disabilities with genuine and pressing needs to benefit from the intervention.
Mr Kwesi Debra, President of the Federation of Persons with Disabilities in the Mpohor-Fiase District, expressed gratitude to the government for its continued support to the federation and for prioritizing the welfare of persons with disabilities.
He appealed to the beneficiaries to use the items and financial assistance responsibly to improve on their livelihoods, expand their economic activities, and achieve greater financial self-reliance.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/George-Ramsey Benamba
Reporter: Emmanuel Gamson