Ayawaso North Municipal Assembly marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities

The Department of Social Welfare and Community Development in the Ayawaso North Municipal Assembly has joined the world to commemorate this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

The event, held at the Assembly’s premises on Friday, sought to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities while addressing the challenges they face in society.

In her opening address, the Deputy Coordinating Director of the Ayawaso North Municipal Assembly, Ms Hannah Asiedu Mantey, reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for PWDs.

She stated, “It is our responsibility as a community to ensure that persons with disabilities are not left behind. Through collaboration and deliberate policy efforts, we can create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

The Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, Ms Vera Aku Nyarko, reaffirmed the Assembly’s dedication to empowering PWDs through targeted programmes and advocacy.

“As a municipality, we will continue to roll out programmes that address their unique needs and advocate for their rights. Our goal is to build a more inclusive Ayawaso North where everyone feels valued and supported,” she said.

She called on community members to support PWDs by fostering inclusivity and advocating for systemic changes to address inequality.

On her part, the Senior Social Development Officer in the Assembly, Madam Rosemond A. Opoku, stated that the needs of people with disabilities should be prioritised so that everyone has equal access to safety, shelter, information and life-saving services.

She encouraged stakeholders to work together to create more inclusive societies for the benefit of people with disabilities.

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebrated annually, aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities across all spheres of society.

This year’s celebration, themed; “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” brought together various stakeholders, including disability-focused organizations, local authorities and members of the community.

The event also featured a health education session led by nurse Hannah Gbogblogbe from Mamobi Hospital. Participants received vital information about HIV prevention and safe sex practices, along with free blood screening. Condoms were also distributed as part of efforts to promote reproductive health awareness among persons with disabilities.