Parents and caregivers of persons with disabilities in Agona Nsaba in the Central Region have appealed to the government to establish affordable rehabilitation centres and strengthen support systems to ease their caregiving burden. 

The appeal was made during a meeting organised by the National Association of Parents and Caregivers of Persons with Disabilities. Participants shared personal experiences, highlighting financial hardships and limited access to basic assistive devices for their children. 

Ms Sadatu Amadu, a sibling of a person living with cerebral palsy, said caregiving responsibilities had significantly affected her education and work, explaining that her mother was also living with a disability, while her sister had given birth to a child with a disability, placing a heavy burden on her. 

“Most of the time, when my mother needs to go somewhere, or my sister has to do something, I have to stop school or work to support them. It is very challenging. Government support through rehabilitation centres and effective support systems will make life much easier,” she said. 

The president of the National Association of Parents and Caregivers of Persons with Disabilities, Hannah Awadzi, called for unity among parents of children with special needs to strengthen advocacy efforts. 

“We need to form a formidable front and speak with one voice. We must be present at the policy table so the government understands our concerns and factors them into national policies,” she stated. 

Mrs Awadzi also educated parents on existing government interventions, including the District Assembly Common Fund for Persons with Disabilities, inclusive education policies, and the Disability Act.

She encouraged parents to empower themselves with knowledge to better advocate for the rights and welfare of their children.