In a significant step toward financial inclusion and empowerment, three Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) from the Takla Gborgame community in the Ho Municipal of the Volta Region have received support from the Disability Fund for the first time in December 2024. This breakthrough came after a targeted intervention by GLOWA under the Action for Voice, Influence and Inclusive Development (AVID) Project, through its “We Matter! Empowering Rural Women and PWD constituents to take positive actions to participate actively in local governance processes for improved livelihood” activity, successfully challenging years of exclusion.
Prior to GLOWA’s intervention, many PWDs in the area were not included in the official District’s Disability Album, a key requirement for accessing the 3% District Assembly Common Fund. The lack of awareness and support in the application process further marginalized them. The AVID Project, sponsored by William and Flora Hewlett Foundation through STAR-Ghana Foundation, facilitated the crucial update of the Disability Album and provided direct assistance to beneficiaries in completing their applications. These efforts culminated in success, with each of the three PWDs from the community receiving trade provisions and a cash amount of GH₵1,000.00 support to start or expand their income-generating activities. As one of the beneficiaries, Mawunya Ahiadzo, stated, “We were not expecting any assistance, but it suddenly came,” highlighting the profound and unexpected impact of the support. Another beneficiary, Enyoman Atsu, a fish seller, expressed her gratitude for the new capital to grow her business, while Mawunya also mentioned using the funds to cover hospital bills. This success story underscores GLOWA’s commitment to ensuring no one is left behind. By strengthening community-level accountability and empowering PWDs to participate in local governance, the project is not only providing financial assistance but also fostering hope and independence. The beneficiaries now look to the future with renewed optimism, serving as a powerful testament to the project’s transformative power in their lives.
