Parents, caregivers, schools, and health facilities that deny children with disabilities access to education and healthcare will soon face legal action, disability rights advocates have warned.
The immediate past Central Regional Chairman of the Ghana Blind Union and the Ghana Disability Federation, Safohene George Frimpong, issued the stern warning to individuals and institutions that deliberately sideline children with disabilities.
He noted that stigma, discrimination, and harmful cultural practices continue to push many parents into hiding their children, depriving them of essential services and opportunities for development.
Speaking at a training workshop organised by the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development at the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly, Mr. Frimpong said his organisations have received reports of parents, caregivers, teachers, and some health facilities denying children with disabilities their right to education and healthcare.
He cautioned that the federation will begin taking legal action against offenders to enforce the rights of these children.
Mr. Frimpong also called for a review of cultural practices that undermine the dignity and protection of persons with disabilities.
The workshop, sponsored by Visio-International in collaboration with Presbyterian Health Services and the ANOPA Project, aimed to equip parents of visually impaired children with skills to provide proper care.
Chairman of the Parents of Visually Impaired Support Group, Thomas Nkrumah—himself visually impaired and a father of five visually impaired children—encouraged parents not to hide their children but to confidently integrate them into society. He urged families to seek support from social welfare offices and appealed to corporate bodies and the public to respond positively to requests for assistance.
Social Welfare Officer in charge of the disability desk, Yvonne Ignetia Afedze, explained that the training was essential because parents and caregivers also need guidance to provide holistic care. She expressed gratitude to all partner organisations for supporting the initiative.
READ ALSO:
