A disability research and policy institute, VOICE Ghana, has counselled the government and business community to commit towards building an inclusive society to enable Persons With disability (PWDs) access services and products.

The government was also urged to enforce laws on accessibility and invest in accessible innovation as part of its digital agenda. 

This is geared towards removing the barriers that prevent PWDs from participating effectively in the society to enhance their well-being and ensure inclusive development.

“We call on businesses and industries to make their products including assistive technologies and services more accessible and affordable for people with disabilities”, a communique signed by the Executive Director of VOICE Ghana, Francis Asong, said. The communique was part of activities to commemorate this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies were advised to ensure building codes on accessibility in line with the Ghana Accessibility Standards by the Ghana Standards Authority, are adhered to before issuing permits for construction of public buildings. 

“This is the only way people with disabilities can participate fully, equally, and effectively in society with others, and face no barriers in all aspects of their lives”, the communique stated. 

VOICE Ghana was established in 2002 and has become a noted advocate for people with disabilities. 

It recently transformed into a disability research and policy institute with the mandate of advancing inclusive development and social justice for people with disabilities, including people with mental health conditions in Africa, particularly Ghana, through research, policy advocacy and public consultations.