Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang urges effective use of 5% disability fund

Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to prioritize the effective utilization of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) specifically allocated for persons with disabilities. Speaking at the Day of Help for Persons with Disabilities in Koforidua, the Vice President highlighted the government’s decision to increase the disability component of the fund to 5% in 2025 as a clear signal of its commitment to social inclusion and economic empowerment.

The Vice President's message, which was further detailed by Policy Advisor Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, emphasized that the increased allocation must translate into tangible benefits for the recipients. Dr. Ampofo noted that the 2025 increase reflects a strategic shift toward providing more robust support for the welfare of individuals with disabilities. He urged local government authorities to transform existing administrative structures into platforms for accountability, ensuring that the funds are not merely disbursed but are used to meet the specific, real-world needs of the beneficiaries to foster self-reliance.

Beyond financial support, the government is focusing on creating sustainable pathways to economic independence through structural reforms. Dr. Ofosu Ampofo highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving legal frameworks and establishing employment quotas to ensure that persons with disabilities have equal access to job opportunities in both the public and private sectors. He stressed that administrative structures must be empowered to advocate for these individuals and ensure they are not excluded from the formal workforce.

The event also served as a call to action for the broader Ghanaian society to combat the stigma often associated with disability. By promoting the active participation of all citizens in national development, the administration aims to move away from a model of charity toward one of empowerment. The Vice President’s office reiterated that ensuring the proper management and accountability of these funds is a critical step in building a more equitable society where every individual has the tools to succeed independently.