Municipal Chief Executive for Oforikrom, Anwel Ahmed Sadat, says the government’s commitment to release the disability funds on time will be a decisive step towards removing persons with disabilities from the streets.

He made this statement as the assembly distributed items such as sewing machines, freezers, fufu‑pounding machines, and industrial sewing machines to a total of 36 persons with disabilities.

The items were financed from the 3% Common Fund allocation earmarked for PWDs, aimed at promoting self‑reliance, income‑generating activities, education, health needs, start‑up capital, and skills training.

Sadat explained that when the funds reach the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCAs) in good time, the local authorities can purchase the tools and equipment needed to create sustainable livelihoods for PWDs.

“The timely release of the fund for the MMDCAs to purchase items that will create jobs for persons with disabilities is the best way to solve the street‑begging problem,” he said.

He added that the task of taking PWDs off the streets is “very difficult because of their situation.”

He noted that simply preventing them from begging without providing financial support would be “challenging, if not impossible.”

The MCE emphasized that a combination of cash assistance, training, and the provision of income‑generating assets is essential to give them a realistic alternative.

He also urged all MMDCAs to be openly accountable to PWDs and all Ghanaians on how the funds are spent.

“Transparency will keep the trust in government alive,” he said.

He also denied allegations of political interference, stating that the disbursement process is free from discrimination.

“There is no discrimination in the process,” he asserted.

He also commended the government for considering an increase in the disability allocation—from 3% to 5%. In his view, such a boost demonstrates a clear commitment to standing by Ghana’s persons with disabilities, especially when they feel hope is lost.

Joseph Cobbold, a representative of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries.

He urged the recipients to use the items for their intended purpose, warning that selling the equipment would undermine the program and push them back onto the streets.

“If we use these items wisely, it will boost the government’s confidence to release the funds on time and continue supporting PWDs,” Cobbold said.

The ceremony underscored the assembly’s commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and reducing reliance on begging through sustainable economic opportunities. With continued funding, training, and oversight, officials hope to transform the lives of many PWDs in Oforikrom and set a precedent for other districts across the country.