Chairman of Parliament’s Disability Caucus, Dr. Clement Apaak, has called for a stronger national commitment to disability inclusion, urging government, the private sector and civil society to ensure that no Ghanaian is excluded because of disability.
Delivering a statement in Parliament on Tuesday to mark the National Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Builsa South MP said disability inclusion is a matter of human rights, equality and justice, not charity.
“Together, let us build a nation where inclusion is not an aspiration but a reality; where accessibility is not an exception but a standard; and where no Ghanaian is left behind because of disability,” he said.
Speaking on the theme, “From Act to Action: Finalizing Reforms and Enforcing Disability Rights Now,” Dr. Apaak said the day should serve as a call to reflection, accountability and action rather than a ceremonial observance.
“This occasion is not merely a day of commemoration. It is a national call to reflection, accountability, and action,” he told Parliament.
He urged stakeholders, including government institutions, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, development partners, the private sector and civil society organisations, to work together to remove barriers facing persons with disabilities.
According to Dr. Apaak, more than two million Ghanaians live with one form of disability, based on the 2021 Population and Housing Census. Despite their potential and contributions to national development, many continue to face challenges accessing education, healthcare, employment, transportation, information, public infrastructure and social protection services.
“These realities underscore the urgent need to strengthen implementation, enhance accountability, and accelerate reforms,” he said.
The Deputy Minister for Education stressed that disability rights must be translated into practical outcomes.
“Disability inclusion must never be viewed as an act of charity or benevolence. It is fundamentally a matter of human rights, equality, and justice,” he said.
Dr. Apaak also called for accessible schools, workplaces, healthcare facilities and transport systems, while urging policymakers to integrate disability considerations into national planning and development.
He said sustained action is needed to ensure persons with disabilities are fully included in Ghana’s social and economic development.
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