Yilo krobo: The Yilo Krobo Municipal Assembly in the Eastern Region has significantly expanded its livelihood support programme for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), raising the number of beneficiaries from 74 last year to 108 this year. The initiative aims to enhance economic empowerment and social inclusion for PWDs through various forms of assistance.
According to Ghana Web, the beneficiaries received a range of support, including start-up kits, income-generating items, assistive devices, and cash grants, during a ceremony held at the Assembly. The support is part of the Persons with Disability component of the District Assemblies Common Fund and is tailored to meet the specific needs and interests of the beneficiaries.
Municipal Chief Executive Francis Addo Akumatey attributed the increase in beneficiaries to a rise in the allocation for PWDs in the District Assemblies Common Fund, from three per cent to five per cent. He praised disability organisation leaders for their role in promoting the programme and ensuring transparency in beneficiary selection. Akumatey encouraged unsuccessful applicants to reapply in future rounds and urged current beneficiaries to use their support effectively.
The Director of Social Welfare and Community Development at the Assembly, Na-Afua Tettey, highlighted the programme's focus on inclusion, dignity, social justice, and economic empowerment. Out of 164 applications, 108 were approved following assessments and vetting. The distributed items included freezers, processing machines, farm inputs, and assistive devices, among others. Tettey emphasized the importance of using the items appropriately and maintaining them well.
Vida Niine Awaitey, President of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations in Yilo Krobo, expressed gratitude for the increased allocation in the Common Fund, which allowed more PWDs to access substantial livelihood assistance. Awaitey, however, called for more frequent disbursements to maximize coverage.
One beneficiary, Isaac Nartey Terkper, celebrated receiving an industrial sewing machine after a decade-long wait, expressing gratitude for the assistance that will enhance his work. The Assembly has committed to ongoing monitoring to ensure the support leads to sustainable improvements in the livelihoods of PWDs in the municipality.