President John Dramani Mahama announced the Ghanaian government’s plan to import rechargeable electric wheelchairs for persons with disabilities during a citizens’ engagement in Goaso, concluding his two-day Resetting Ghana Tour of the Ahafo Region.
The pilot project intends to improve mobility for persons with disabilities (PWDs). Once the wheelchairs arrive, they will be handed over to the National Council on Persons with Disability. Mahama said the government would consider replicating the project annually if the initial phase proves successful.
Mahama also revealed that the allocation from the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) dedicated to persons with disabilities has increased from three per cent to five per cent under his administration. This fund supports local government initiatives aimed at improving conditions for PWDs.
In addition to the wheelchair project, President Mahama confirmed plans to amend the Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715). The amendment aims to strengthen protections and promote the rights of persons with disabilities, improving their living conditions.
On health matters, Mahama recalled the government’s implementation of the Free Primary Healthcare Programme, which provides free healthcare services to the public. He also mentioned the establishment of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, known as MahamaCares, designed to reduce the financial burden on patients with chronic diseases such as cancers and kidney conditions requiring dialysis.
The announcement followed a series of engagements across the Ahafo Region, where Mahama addressed various public concerns. The introduction of electric wheelchairs is the latest step in government efforts to address the needs of marginalized groups.
The National Council on Persons with Disability will oversee the distribution of the imported wheelchairs when they arrive. The council is responsible for coordinating disability-related policies and programs across Ghana.
The increase in DACF allocation signals a shift in government budgeting priorities, aiming to provide more resources for disability-related projects at the district level.
The Persons with Disability Act, originally passed in 2006, sets out legal protections and rights for PWDs. The proposed amendments have not been detailed publicly, but the government indicates they will strengthen the act’s provisions.
Mahama’s remarks about the Free Primary Healthcare Programme and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund suggest an ongoing focus on addressing chronic health issues that affect many Ghanaians, including persons with disabilities.
The pilot project to import rechargeable electric wheelchairs reflects a growing recognition of the need for accessible mobility aids in Ghana. If successful, annual imports could expand access to electric wheelchairs nationwide.
The government has not yet disclosed the number of wheelchairs to be imported or the timeline for their arrival and distribution.
The initiative will test whether imported electric wheelchairs can effectively improve mobility and quality of life for PWDs in Ghana.
The involvement of the National Council on Persons with Disability ensures a channel for oversight and accountability in managing the project.
President Mahama’s announcements came amid broader discussions about social inclusion and healthcare reforms during his tour.
The government’s increased funding and legislative proposals indicate a response to longstanding calls for better support for persons with disabilities.
The impact of these measures will depend on how quickly and efficiently the pilot project is implemented and scaled.
According to Joy Online.
