World Disability Day: KMA MARKS DAY WITH DISBURSEMENT OF CASH AND ITEMS TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES.

The Mayor of Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, Hon. Samuel Pyne, has disbursed cash and items amounting to GH¢181,710to persons with disabilities (PWDs) as part of this year’s World Disability Day celebration.

In summary, 34 PWDs, including students, traders, and artisans, received financial support as educational and start-up capital, while 14 were supported with items such as industrial sewing machines, chest freezers, and mailing machines, as per their request to the Assembly.

These donations were made possible through the District Assembly Common Fund, which allocates 3% of its funds to support PWDs.

Addressing a durbar on December 3,2024, at KMA's premises, Hon. Samuel Pyne said this initiative demonstrates the government's commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities for better lives and futures.

He emphasized that disability is not inability and encouraged individuals with disabilities to strive for a better life by putting the monies and items to good use.

He assured them that the assembly's social welfare department is available to provide assistance whenever needed, on the condition that earlier support is used judiciously.

Mrs. Esther Apraku Nyarko, Metro Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development (DSWCD),noted that about 16% of the global population are PWDs, echoing the need to prioritize their needs to make them productive and contributors to the growth of the economy.

She emphasized that the theme for this year's World Disability Day - "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future" - is apt and essential, considering the population of PWDs and their ability to shape society.

She joined the Mayor of Kumasi in advising the beneficiaries to utilize the donated funds effectively to achieve the government's objectives.

Isaac Ofori, a level 400 student at the University of Education, Winneba, who benefited from the support, spoke to the media on the sidelines of the event with full of praise.

 He expressed gratitude to the government and KMA for the support and promised to make good use of it.

He encouraged people with disabilities to cultivate a spirit of determination to overcome challenges and achieve success in life.