The beneficiaries comprised 42 males and 33 females, who received various forms of support under the Disability Common Fund to enhance their economic independence, educational opportunities, access to healthcare, and overall well-being.

Speaking at the disbursement ceremony, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Birim North, Hon. Hakeem Antwi Abdul, said the intervention reflects the government's determination to ensure that no one is left behind in the country's development agenda.

"This support is a demonstration of government's commitment to leaving no one behind. I urge all beneficiaries to put these resources to good use to improve their livelihoods and that of their families," the DCE stated.

Hon. Hakeem Antwi Abdul explained that the allocation of the fund was guided by the Assembly's commitment to addressing the diverse needs of persons with disabilities. He noted that 50 percent of the fund was allocated to economic empowerment, 10 percent to education and skills training, 15 percent to medical support and assistive devices, 10 percent to support for parents and caregivers of persons with disabilities, 10 percent to advocacy and organisational development for Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), while the remaining 5 percent covered administrative costs.

As part of the disbursement, 28 beneficiaries received start-up kits to establish or expand income-generating activities, while 31 beneficiaries benefited from educational support. Others received apprenticeship training, assistive devices, medical assistance, and other interventions aimed at enhancing their independence and quality of life.

The Chief of Akyem Nkwateng commended the government and the Birim North District Assembly for sustaining the Disability Common Fund programme, describing it as a life-changing intervention for persons with disabilities in the district.

"We are grateful to the government for the care and attention given to persons with disabilities in our community. This gesture will go a long way to change lives," the Chief stated.

The ceremony was attended by the District Coordinating Director, Mr. Mark Addo, the District Finance Officer, the District Engineer, the District Planning Officer, heads of departments, and other staff of the Birim North District Assembly.

The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the timely disbursement of the Disability Common Fund, strengthening capacity-building initiatives, and intensifying public education to ensure that more persons with disabilities, particularly those in remote communities, benefit from the programme.

The Disability Common Fund continues to serve as a key government intervention to promote the economic empowerment, social inclusion, and welfare of persons with disabilities, helping to reduce poverty and create equal opportunities for all.