The Ghana Society of Persons with Disabilities Ga Chapter has organised a capacity building programme for persons with disabilities on 21^st May at the Municipal Assembly Hall under the theme, “Empowering Persons with Disabilities Through Knowledge, Rights and Digital Advocacy.”

The programme aimed to educate and empower persons with disabilities, particularly in the effective use of social media and the protection of their rights.

Speaking at the event, the Municipal Director of Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Abena Nartey, explained that one of the key objectives of the programme was to teach persons with disabilities how to use social media responsibly and effectively. She stressed that disability does not mean inability and that persons with disabilities deserve equal opportunities in society.

According to her, many persons with disabilities possess the required qualifications for employment but are often denied job opportunities and unfairly compared to able-bodied persons. She noted that persons with disabilities continue to face several challenges, including inaccessibility to public spaces and facilities, preferential treatment, harassment, discrimination, name-calling, and various forms of abuse such as physical, sexual, and criminal abuse.

Madam Abena Nartey encouraged victims of discrimination and abuse to report such cases to CHRAJ, stating that the institution is mandated to handle issues relating to fundamental human rights, discrimination, and redress. She further highlighted the role of the National Council on Persons with Disability and emphasized that the rights of persons with disabilities must always be protected.

She added that individuals who violate the rights of persons with disabilities should face the full rigours of the law. To support persons facing emotional difficulties or rights violations, she shared a support contact line, 0256063810, and noted that serious cases could also be taken to court.

Also addressing participants was Georgina Kumah, Superintendent at the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of tAmasaman. She explained that DOVVSU handles cases involving domestic violence and victim support services, including physical, emotional, economic, and sexual abuse such as rape.

She noted that many victims often experience fear and panic whenever they encounter their abusers. Superintendent Kumah further educated participants on issues of defilement and rape, explaining that defilement involves children under the age of sixteen under Act 732, and that rape and offensive conduct are punishable by law.

She added that some victims are referred to the Social Welfare Department for additional support and counselling. Participants were therefore encouraged to speak up against domestic violence and report cases promptly. Emergency numbers shared during the programme included the DOVVSU hotline, 0551000900, and the Police Emergency Line, 18555.

The Presiding Member of the Ga West Assembly, Hon. Emmanuel Mawuli Amuzu, also spoke on the role of the Assembly and the Zonal Councils in promoting inclusive governance. He explained that Zonal Councils serve as representatives of the Assembly at the community level, while Assembly Members represent the interests of the people.

He stated that Assembly Members help formulate rules and regulations under the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), which guides the operations of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies.

Honourable Amuzu explained that Assembly Members regularly engage communities and stakeholders, including persons with disabilities, to identify their challenges and needs. He said these concerns are analysed and presented to the Assembly to support decision-making and community development initiatives.

He further disclosed that persons with disabilities benefit from a percentage of the Common Fund and noted that government appointees, physically challenged persons, and market women all have representatives who participate in decision-making processes within the Assembly.

In conclusion, Honourable Amuzu assured participants that the Assembly would continue to maintain a listening ear for persons with disabilities and work towards addressing their concerns to ensure inclusiveness and equal participation in society.

Source: Gifty Owusu Kattah, ISD-GWMA