The Human Rights and Development Service has organized a stakeholder dialogue aimed at promoting inclusion and addressing challenges confronting Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in society.

‎The engagement formed part of activities under the “Break the Silence” project, an initiative focused on empowering communities to confront the culture of silence surrounding Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the Western Region.

‎The project is being implemented under the Support for Human Rights, Gender Equality and Civil Society (SHE) project in Ghana with funding support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

‎Speaking to the media during the programme, the Executive Director of the organization, Madam Eva Ankrah, expressed concern over the discrimination and stigma faced by persons with disabilities in some communities.

‎She noted that offensive labels and negative treatment directed at PWDs could have serious effects on their mental and emotional well-being.

‎“Persons with disabilities deserve respect, equal opportunities, and support from society. We must all work together to end discrimination and create an environment where everyone feels valued and included,” Madam Eva Ankrah stated.

‎According to her, institutions such as the Social Welfare Service, the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), and other human rights organizations continue to educate and support persons with disabilities on how to protect their rights and deal with societal challenges.

‎Madam Ankrah further explained that these institutions also engage stakeholders and undertake research to better understand the living conditions of persons with disabilities and their contributions to national development.

‎She therefore, called on community members, institutions, and other stakeholders to support efforts aimed at creating a more inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for persons with disabilities.

Sompaonline.com/Akua Twumasi