A total of 47 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the Ekumfi District of the Central Region have received substantial business, training, and educational support packages. The combined total disbursement for this cycle amounted to GH₵199,880.00, representing a significant investment by the District Assembly to improve the standards of living for its residents. The gesture is in fulfillment of the government’s policy directive on the efficient utilization of the disability component of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF).
This initiative is intended to economically empower disabled persons to build sustainable livelihoods and fend for themselves. The support was divided into direct cash/capital for business and the provision of physical start-up kits. The cash amounts distributed to the 47 beneficiaries ranged from GH₵1,700.00 to GH₵6,000.00, totaling GH₵100,900.00. A portion of these funds was also allocated for the purchase of hearing aids and other assistive devices.
Following a vetting process by the Disability Fund Management Committee, 37 start-up kits (valued at GH₵98,980.00) were distributed. The specific items included 23 deep freezers, 7 fufu machines, 2 industrial machines, 2 sewing machines, 1 knitting machine, 1 vegetable grinding machine, and 1 popcorn machine.
During the ceremony, the District Chief Executive (DCE), Ismael Nana Asamoah, reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of PWDs, stating that the ceremony marks a milestone in ensuring "no one is left behind in our journey toward development and prosperity." He urged beneficiaries to use the resources to create employment for others within the community.
The District Coordinating Director, Benjamin Opoku Busia, and the Chairman of the Disability Common Fund Management Committee further emphasized the importance of registration. They urged all PWDs in the district to register with the Assembly to ensure eligibility for future support and appealed to beneficiaries to use the items judiciously to improve their living conditions.