Asokwa MCE, Chief Akwannuasa Gyimah sharing with the physically challenged at Asokwa
The Member of Parliament for Asokwa, Madam Patricia Appiagyei supported by Chief Akwannuasa Gyimah, Municipal Chief Executive for Asokwa on new-year’s eve feted about three hundred persons with various forms of disability (PWDs) at the compound of the Presbyterian Church branch in Atonsu.
Having sent a request to the Social Welfare Directorate to have the PWDs assembled for an end of year party, Madam Appiagyei addressing the gathering including some NPP sympathizers said every Ghanaian deserved to have a cause to smile during Christmas.
The Asokwa MP also noted the invaluable role PWDs play in the development of the country, adding most of them are working in productive ventures of the economy.
Sompahemaa, as the famous legislator is fondly referred to by party people noted that the sustainable development goals (SDGs) as launched by the United Nations envisages that persons with disability be treated well and supported by government to play crucial roles in nation building.
‘’As a government we are committed to supporting PWDs with resources and start- up capital so that we can help them realize the potentials embedded in their persons and ultimately make meaning out of the SDGs as set out by the UN’’, Mama Pat stressed.
Asokwa MP: Madam Patricia Appiagyei sharing with the Physically Challenged at Asokwa
MCE:
Speaking at the party, Chief Akwannuasa thanked the MP for the gesture towards the PWDs and urged other MPs to show similar kindnesses.
He urged PWDs to break off the mentality that forces them to use their vulnerability to solicit for alms on traffic intersections.
The MCE noted that disability does not mean inability, adding everyone who has one form of disability or the other can equally make use of other limbs he or she may have to do something for a living.
He therefore tasked the Federation of Disability Organizations to look at the capacities of their members and seek sponsorship for them to work with the talents they may have.
‘’Surely your disability is not inability and therefore it is important to identify your potential or capacity so the various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) can support you with resources, start-up capital or find jobs for your members at the assembly.’’
BENEFICIARIES:
Expressing profuse appreciation to the MP and the MCE, some of the PWDs said this was the first time they were experiencing such care from government officials.
Abena Konadu, a physically challenged lady said the MP had overwhelmed her and her folks with the treatment given to them as they had been given bags of rice and oil for the house despite eating and enjoying drinks earlier in the day.
Alex Konadu, a sight-impaired man blessed the MP and the MCE for the gesture, noting it was heartwarming hearing that the two government officials were personally serving the food and drinks at the party.
Speaking to this reporter later, Tabi Amponsah Alfred, President for the Ashanti Regional Branch of the Federation of Disability Organizations thanked the MP and MCE for the gesture and asked that a disability fund be created at MMDAs so that PWDS can access same for their upkeep and during emergencies.
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