Entrepreneurial individuals with disabilities (PWDs) across Ghana have united to establish a national association aimed at promoting their skills, talents, and entrepreneurial ventures while advocating for their rights. The newly formed association also seeks to draw government attention to existing laws and policies regarding PWDs, with a focus on obtaining necessary social, financial, and material support as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution.
To lead this effort, members have elected national, regional, and district officers to help drive their mission and vision. They also call on the government, stakeholders, philanthropists, and well-meaning Ghanaians to support their cause.
The group, dubbed the Ghana People With Disabilities (PWDs) Association, brings together various smaller PWD groups into a united front. Modeled after prominent unions such as the Trades Union Congress (TUC), the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), and the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), this association aims to serve as a powerful collective voice to address their needs.
At the inaugural event, which took place at the Accra Rehabilitation Centre in Asylum Down on Saturday, September 7, 2024, the association elected its national officers. The gathering included individuals with diverse disabilities, many of whom demonstrated impressive entrepreneurial skills and business acumen.
Among the newly elected leaders is Mr. Richard Ofei, the association’s National President, who owns and operates “Agyenkwa Beverages,” a business specializing in fruit juice production. Other prominent members include Christopher Darrah, who showcased high-quality shoes and sandals he produces in Adjen Kotoku, and Mrs. Sirina Mahamadu, a teacher who was unanimously elected 1st Vice President.
The full list of elected national officers includes:
- Mr. Richard Ofei, National President
- Mrs. Sirina Mahamadu, 1st Vice President
- Mr. Asamoah, 2nd Vice President
- Mr. Godfred Afenyadzu Dzigbodzi, Administrator
- Alberta Dadzie, Assistant Administrator
- Alhassan Sullayman, Public Relations Officer (PRO)
- Mr. Amugi, National Project Coordinator
- Victor, Business Orientation Manager
The association’s Board of Directors and representatives from six regions also participated in the event. It was agreed that elected national officers would facilitate the election of regional and district officers to ensure effective operations across the country.
In their acceptance speeches, the newly elected officers expressed their determination, dedication, and commitment to advancing the association’s objectives. They emphasized the need for unity and self-reliance to make a meaningful impact in society, asserting that PWDs must advocate for themselves in pursuing their rights.
Quoting Shakespeare, one speaker declared, “If you don’t say ‘I am,’ no one will say ‘Thou art!'”—a call for PWDs to stand up and make their voices heard.
By S.O. Ankamah || ghananewsonline.com.gh