My visual impairment would not affect my job – Minister-designate

Dr Henry Daanaa

Minister-designate for Chieftaincy and Traditional Affairs, Dr. Henry Seidu Daanaa says though he is blind, his competence and experience must not be taken for granted.

Having worked with almost all regional Houses of Chiefs in the country, Dr. Daanaa told Joy News he understands the problems facing the chieftaincy institution and the kind of solutions required to make it more effective.

“This is an opportunity to advise the president and then, personally, to also ensure that the chieftaincy and its machinery works.”

Dr Daanaa described himself as “a pioneer all my life", noting that he was the first blind person in Ghana to be called to the bar on 4th October 1987.

He said many had doubted his abilities then and questioned how he could discharge his duties, but was able to prove his critics wrong.

When asked if his sight could pose a challenge to his new portfolio, he replied in the negative: “No. I am saying no because there is no human being that will take up a job and would not have a challenge, so to that extent I will say I will have a challenge.”

Customarily, some chiefs don't shake hands with blind people, but for Dr Daanaa having worked with chiefs both at regional and national levels, he remarked, “that has not affected my work for19 years”.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Federation of the Disabled is rejoicing over Dr Daanaa's nomination.

President of the federation, Yaw Ofori Debrah who also doubles as the President of the Ghana Blind Union, says the Union is happy the President has recognized the talents of physically impaired persons.

He however wants more persons with disability considered for appointment as deputy ministers.