Dr. Augustina Naami, Head of the Department of Social Work at the University of Ghana, has issued a call to the Ghanaian disability community to safeguard the legacy of Ghana Somubi Dwumadie, a four-year disability rights advocacy programme that is set to conclude in September 2024.
The programme, led by a consortium of four organisations, has focused on promoting stronger policies, scaling up mental health services, reducing stigma, and generating evidence to inform policy and practice regarding disability inclusion.
Dr. Naami acknowledged the programme’s early successes, including increased knowledge and awareness of disability issues, enhanced acceptance of individuals with disabilities, and a decline in the use of derogatory language. She also noted that people with disabilities are now taking on leadership positions and are more aware of their rights.
Speaking at a recent event in Accra showcasing the programme’s achievements through the screening of four impactful grantee films, Dr. Naami highlighted the project’s strategies, particularly its participatory approach. She emphasized that involving individuals with disabilities and those with mental health conditions in the design and delivery of stigma reduction interventions has led to the development of culturally sensitive and inclusive materials, increased acceptance and ownership, and the empowerment of people with disabilities.
“I believe, without an iota of doubt, that Ghana Somubi Dwumadie’s stigma reduction strategies could be the catalyst to reducing stigma and discrimination against persons with disabilities and mental health conditions and to promote their full and effective participation,” stated Dr. Naami.
She urged donors and development partners to support disability organisations and civil society organisations working in the areas of stigma reduction and disability inclusion to preserve the programme’s legacy.
Dr. Naami underscored the importance of involving individuals with disabilities in decision-making processes and leveraging partnerships with stakeholders to advance disability inclusion.
“The fight for disability rights and inclusion has not yet ended. Ghana has an estimated number of five million persons with disabilities who are still struggling for inclusion in mainstream society. There is, therefore, a need to speed up disability inclusion to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, which are built on the principle of ‘leaving no one behind’,” she added.
Ghana Somubi Dwumadie serves as a model for reducing stigma and promoting disability inclusion, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals’ principle of “leaving no one behind.” The programme’s legacy will continue to inspire ongoing efforts to create a more equitable and inclusive society for all Ghanaians.
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com