John Dramani Mahama to import electric wheelchairs for PWDs

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a new government initiative to import rechargeable electric wheelchairs for persons with disabilities (PWDs) to improve their mobility and independence. Speaking during his "Resetting Ghana Tour" at a Citizens' Engagement in Goaso, the President explained that the move is part of a pilot project designed to address the physical barriers faced by Ghanaians who require advanced mobility aids. The project will be overseen by the National Council on Persons with Disability, with the President indicating that the programme will be sustained annually if the pilot phase proves successful.

In addition to the mobility initiative, President Mahama announced a significant increase in the financial support allocated to the disability community through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). The specific portion of the fund earmarked for PWDs is set to rise from three percent to five percent. This adjustment is intended to provide more substantial resources for local-level empowerment and social interventions, ensuring that disability-inclusive development is better funded at the district level.

To further safeguard the rights of the community, the President revealed plans to amend the Persons with Disability Act to enhance the legal protections and living conditions of PWDs. He also highlighted broader social support measures, including the Free Primary Healthcare Programme and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. These programmes are intended to alleviate the financial burden on PWDs and other vulnerable citizens when seeking treatment for chronic diseases and general healthcare services.