The Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations (GFD) has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to improve voting accessibility for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the upcoming elections. Karim Iddrisu, President of the Obuasi chapter of the GFD, emphasized that many PWDs face challenges at polling stations, with some having to endure long queues, which discourages participation.

“We as PWDs always believe in democracy since it is the only way we can be part of governance processes and be heard too," he said. "So we are appealing to the EC to make it easier for our members to participate in the process.”The appeal came during a ceremony in Obuasi, where the Obuasi Municipal Assembly presented various items to PWDs to support their livelihoods.

According to Elijah Adansi-Bonah, the Municipal Chief Executive, the Disability Fund—financed by 3 percent of the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF)—has provided sustainable income opportunities for around 95 percent of PWDs in the municipality, significantly reducing the need for roadside begging.

In total, 21 PWDs received items such as knitting machines, fufu pounding machines, and industrial sewing machines, while others were given educational and medical support. To ensure the donations are used as intended, all items have been embossed to discourage reselling.Mr. Adansi-Bonah highlighted the positive impact of the Disability Fund on PWDs, enabling many to start their own businesses and become self-sufficient.

“The idea behind the Fund is to provide social protection for PWDs,” he stated, urging beneficiaries to make the best use of the resources provided.Mr. Iddrisu expressed appreciation for the government's support through the Fund, which he described as a “laudable intervention,” while reiterating the GFD’s request for accessible voting measures to allow all PWDs to exercise their democratic rights.