He said the Assembly Members had consistently demonstrated their commitment to the wellbeing of PWDs by supporting the timely approval and release of resources allocated to them, enabling the Assembly to implement interventions to improve their livelihoods.

Mr Nketia made the commendation at a ceremony in Dambai to distribute livelihood support items procured by the Krachi East Municipal Assembly through the Persons with Disabilities Common Fund to selected beneficiaries.

He said the support formed part of the Assembly’s broader efforts to create opportunities for PWDs to become economically productive, self-reliant and active participants in the socio-economic development of the Municipality.

The MCE noted that PWDs had significant potential to contribute to local development when provided with the appropriate support, skills and resources to pursue sustainable livelihood activities.

He therefore assured PWDs of the Assembly’s continued commitment to implementing programmes aimed at promoting their economic independence and enhancing their participation in community development.

Mr Nketia said the Assembly would ensure that the three per cent allocation of the District Assemblies Common Fund designated for PWDs was utilised judiciously and transparently to address their livelihood needs.

He explained that the items distributed had been carefully selected to support beneficiaries in their various economic activities, including businesses and other livelihood ventures, and to provide them with the means to improve their household incomes.

The MCE urged beneficiaries to take ownership of the items and use them strictly for their intended purposes to maximise the benefits of the intervention.

He cautioned them against selling or exchanging the items, stressing that the assistance was intended to create sustainable economic opportunities and improve their living conditions.

Mr Nketia also appealed to families, caregivers, traditional leaders and community members to support beneficiaries in managing and using the items productively.

He said community support was essential to removing barriers that often prevented PWDs from fully participating in economic and social activities.

Mr Emmanuel Donkor, Oti Regional President of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), commended the MCE and the Municipal Assembly for their commitment to improving the livelihoods of PWDs.

He said the intervention would help reduce economic vulnerability among beneficiaries and create opportunities for them to become more self-reliant.

Mr Donkor encouraged the beneficiaries to make effective use of the support and remain committed to their respective livelihood activities.

He urged stakeholders to continue working together to promote an inclusive society where persons with disabilities could access equal opportunities and contribute fully to community development.

Some beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Municipal Assembly and the government for the support, saying the items would provide them with the resources needed to strengthen their businesses and livelihood activities, improve their incomes and reduce their dependence on others.