Persons with disabilities are calling for their inclusion in the implementation of government policies and programs. They argue that this is the only way poverty can be eradicated from Ghanaian society.
Mark Atia Akubire, the Upper East Regional Chairman for the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations, speaking to the media on the occasion of the International Day for Poverty Eradication, lamented that persons with disabilities have long been ignored, a situation that heightens their vulnerabilities and dependency.
The International Day for Poverty Eradication is celebrated on October 17. This year’s celebration focused on the theme, “Ending social and institutional maltreatment; Acting together for a just, peaceful, and inclusive society.”
“The theme is perfect. Very perfect because there cannot be eradication of poverty if persons with disabilities are not included,” Mr. Akubire remarked.
He highlighted the critical need for the inclusion of persons with disabilities, pointing out that historical neglect has left this group marginalized at both the family and community levels. “Historically, persons with disabilities have not been regarded in the community. The issues facing persons with disabilities are rampant, whether in the community or at the family level,” he said.
Mr. Akubire shared an example of a visually impaired teacher who often bears the financial burden of acquiring his own teaching materials, which undermines his ability to perform effectively. He also raised concerns about the stigmatization of individuals with mental health issues and the pervasive discrimination they face within institutions.
“Can you imagine that a visually impaired teacher has to provide his own teaching materials when others are given theirs? Can you imagine that a disabled person who is working has to use their own salary to finance certain things that are essential for the proper execution of the job they were employed for? When it comes to funding, the situation is even worse,” he explained.
Mr. Akubire called for a shift from theoretical discussions to practical actions that genuinely involve persons with disabilities in decision-making processes. He emphasized that policies should be developed with input from the disability community, rather than made on their behalf.
“Any decision that is taken should involve the opinions of persons with disabilities. They shouldn’t think on our behalf,” he insisted.
He also criticized the exclusion of persons with disabilities from programs such as the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) project, arguing that in the Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly and other municipalities, they had not been engaged.
“They should let us be part and parcel of the implementation stages so that we can see what our people can benefit from,” Mr. Akubire concluded.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1MHZ | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
