47 PWDS RECEIVE FUNDS FROM ASHMA

The Ashaiman Municipal Assembly (ASHMA)’s Social Welfare and Community Development Department has disbursed funds to 47 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to support their economic independence. The disbursement occurred on 4th October 2024, at the Assembly, following notifications sent to qualified individuals by the Ashaiman Disability Committee. The initiative aims to empower beneficiaries to be self-reliant and less dependent on external support.

Hon. Albert Boakye Okyere, the Ashaiman Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), explained that the Disability Common Fund is disbursed quarterly, expressing optimism that the number of beneficiaries would increase as more people became eligible for support. He encouraged recipients to use the funds wisely to derive the expected benefit for themselves and their families.

He stressed that illnesses and accidents are unpredictable, and more people will continue to seek assistance; therefore, the funds must be managed prudently to ensure they have lasting positive effects. Hon. Albert Boakye Okyere (MCE) praised the government’s dedication to supporting vulnerable groups, hoping that future fund allocations would increase to provide beneficiaries with more resources, tools, and equipment. He also lauded those who chose equipment over cash, noting that such decisions would foster self-reliance rather than dependence.

Mr. Courage Wormenor, the Vice President of the Ghana Federation of the Disabled (GFD), revealed that there are over 4,000 PWDs in Ashaiman, noting however that the committee in charge of the disbursement receives between GHC 24,000 and GHC 30,000 per quarter, which limits the amount available for distribution.

Mr. Wormenor emphasized that despite the limited funds, recipients should focus on using it to initiate income-generating activities, indicating that it is better to receive a small amount and make productive use of it than not receive any support at all.

Although the funds are limited, this year’s distribution has been among the best, as according to him, the accumulated disbursements for the year were distributed among the 47 selected beneficiaries. He urged the recipients to utilize the funds well, indicating that future disbursements would be directed to others. Mr. Felix Kwame Agbeko, a beneficiary who operates a mechanic shop, expressed gratitude for finally receiving the fund after applying in 2018.