The Abuakwa South Municipal Assembly of the Eastern Region has supported some 59 physically challenged persons with a number of items to help them venture into commercial activities.

The items, worth GH₵110,250.44 and intended help to improve their living standards, were procured from the share of the common fund allocated to the Assembly.

Addressing members of the Abuakwa South Federation of Disables during the handing over ceremony on Wednesday, the Municipal Chief Executive, Kojo Ofori-Safo urged the beneficiaries to proficiently utilise the materials given them to improve their livelihood.

He further indicated that routine checkups will be undertaken by the assembly to identify individuals who are efficiently using these items, adding that “those who do not utilise the items very well will not be considered again in future.”

Physically challenged persons by law, are entitled to a three percent share of all quarterly release of the District Assembly’s Common Fund for their upkeep. The Fund was previously disbursed in cash to the physically challenged persons for their use.

The government, however, in 2017 took a decision that instead of handing out cash to the beneficiaries which they usually spend in no time, it was better to ensure that the money was used to secure sources of income with their consent.

In compliance with this directive therefore, the Assembly distributed 16 deep freezers, one printing machine, two motorist spraying machines, one hairdressing materials, a hand pump Machine among others.

The MCE highlighted that school fees and apprenticeship fees of eight persons have been paid  while eight others have been supported with medical and assistive devices.

Mr Ofori-Safo also assured those who are yet to receive their share that in due time, they would also be taken care of.

Members of the federation were appreciative of the government for the gesture.