The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Asunafo South in the Ahafo Region, Mr Joseph Yinka, has presented a range of essential items to 21 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) as part of efforts to improve their livelihoods and promote economic self-reliance.

The items—comprising 11 refrigerators, eight fufu pounding machines, a sewing machine, and a wheelchair—were distributed on Sunday with the aim of equipping beneficiaries with tools to achieve financial and social independence.

“It is the objective of the Disability Common Fund to provide beneficiaries with resources and opportunities to improve their livelihoods and income sources, and to assist PWDs with educational and vocational training to enhance their skills,” Mr Yinka stated.

He explained that the Disability Common Fund (DCF), which forms three per cent of the District Assemblies Common Fund, is a social protection initiative established by the government of Ghana to support and empower persons with disabilities.

The fund, he said, is managed at the district level by the Disability Fund Management Committee (DFMC), which is responsible for reviewing and approving applications submitted by PWDs.

“The fund has provided financial assistance for business ventures, assistive devices, educational support, including school fees, supported access to healthcare, awareness creation, and capacity building, ensuring enabling environments for PWDs,” Mr Yinka added.

He assured the gathering that the fund is being used responsibly and transparently, noting that strong monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are in place.

“Monitoring and evaluation are crucial to enhance the fund’s effectiveness and impact,” he affirmed.

Mr Yinka, however, noted that disbursement is done in batches due to limited resources and urged PWDs in the district to be patient as their applications are processed.

A beneficiary, Kojo Kwarteng, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the recipients, commending the district for adhering to due process in the disbursement of the fund.

“I and the rest of the beneficiaries will put the items received to prudent use to improve our living conditions, rendering us economically self-reliant. We are no longer a burden to our families and society,” he said.

The event was graced by key stakeholders including the Ahafo Regional Minister, Charity Gardiner; the Paramount Chief of the Kukuom Traditional Council, Osahene Yaw Atakyi; as well as regional heads of departments and agencies.