Ghana Must Move "From Act to Action" on Disability Rights – Dr Apaak

Ghana must shift from promises to real progress on disability rights, Deputy Minister for Education and Builsa South MP, Hon. Clement Abas Apaak, has told Parliament.

Making a statement as Ghana joined the world to mark the National Day of Persons with Disabilities, Hon. Apaak said the 2026 theme, _“From Act to Action: Finalizing Reforms and Enforcing Disability Rights Now,”_ is a direct challenge to the country.

“This day is not merely ceremonial. It is a national call for reflection, accountability, and decisive action,” he said.

*2 Million Ghanaians Living with Disabilities*

Citing the 2021 Population and Housing Census, Apaak noted that over 2 million Ghanaians live with some form of disability.

“Beyond these statistics are individuals with aspirations, talents, and immense potential. They are students, entrepreneurs, workers, and citizens determined to participate fully in society,” he told the House.

“Their inclusion is not only a matter of social justice. It is an essential development priority.”

The Deputy Minister acknowledged Ghana’s steps so far, including the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2006 (Act 715) and ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

But he warned that many persons with disabilities still face barriers to education, healthcare, employment, transport, public infrastructure, information, and social protection.

“Public spaces remain largely inaccessible. Economic opportunities are limited. Discrimination and exclusion persist,” Apaak said.

“These realities undermine dignity and restrict their ability to contribute fully to national development.”

Hon. Apaak welcomed ongoing efforts to review Ghana’s disability law to align with international standards. However, he stressed that laws must be backed by enforcement and resources.

“Legislation alone would not be enough. We must ensure that laws are effectively enforced, institutions are adequately resourced, and public policies are translated into measurable outcomes.”

He said Parliament, through the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability, is working to ensure inclusion across all sectors. The caucus recently represented Ghana at the UN in New York and at the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disability Forum in South Africa.

He called on ministries, MMDAs, the private sector, civil society, and the public to Build accessible schools, workplaces, healthcare facilities, transport systems, and public spaces.

Also to Promote inclusive employment and economic opportunities, Strengthen social protection and mainstream disability into national planning and budgeting and Involve PWDs in decisions that affect their lives.

“Inclusion can only be achieved when their voices are heard, respected, and reflected in policy and practice,” he said.

*“No Ghanaian Left Behind”*

Reaffirming Parliament’s pledge, Apaak said the goal is a Ghana where every citizen lives with dignity and realises their full potential, regardless of disability.

“Together, let us build a nation where inclusion is not an aspiration but a reality, where accessibility is not an exception but a standard, where no Ghanaian is left behind because of disability,” he concluded.

The National Day of Persons with Disabilities is commemorated globally on June 23.