Asene Manso Akroso Assembly Empowers 128 PWDs With Business Equipment, Cash
Support targets economic empowerment, education and self-reliance among Persons with Disabilities in the district.
- 128 PWDs receive support
- Equipment boosts livelihoods
- DCE urges proper use of funds
Asene Manso Akroso, Eastern Region — The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Asene Manso Akroso, Hon. Eric Ahinakwa, has supported 128 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the district with start-up equipment and financial assistance to help improve their livelihoods.
The initiative is aimed at promoting economic independence, reducing vulnerability and enabling beneficiaries to achieve long-term self-reliance.
Among the items presented to the beneficiaries were fufu pounding machines, pepper grinding machines, popcorn machines, chest freezers, hand dryers, cocoa spraying machines, wheelchairs and gas ovens. Students with disabilities also received cash support to assist with their education and digital literacy.
Speaking at a presentation ceremony held on Wednesday, September 9, at the forecourt of the District Assembly, Hon. Ahinakwa emphasized that disability should not be equated with inability.
He noted that Persons with Disabilities possess talents, abilities and potential comparable to those of other members of society, and urged beneficiaries to take pride in their identities and continue contributing meaningfully to national development.
The DCE further cautioned beneficiaries, particularly those who received financial assistance, to use the funds strictly for their intended purposes rather than using them to settle personal debts.
According to Hon. Ahinakwa, the commitment of President John Dramani Mahama to the welfare of Persons with Disabilities has contributed to an increase in the Assembly’s Disability Common Fund allocation from three per cent to five per cent.
He explained that the increase would enable more beneficiaries to receive items of their choice to support their businesses and livelihoods.
Hon. Ahinakwa also observed that many people living with disabilities were not born with their conditions but acquired them as a result of circumstances. He therefore called on society to avoid underestimating their abilities and instead promote acceptance, respect and inclusion.
Some beneficiaries expressed their appreciation to the government for the support, describing it as timely and impactful.
By Ham A. Afeti
