In a remarkable show of leadership and accountability, the management of the National Theatre of Ghana has fully renovated its washroom for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), fulfilling a commitment made after an investigative report by DisabilityNewsGH.com.
The renovation was completed by August 31, 2026, exactly one month after DisabilityNewsGH.com published its initial report on July 31, 2026, titled “National Theatre Under Fire as PWD Washroom Remains Locked and Used as Popcorn Machine Store.”
Following an invitation on August 14, the Executive Director of the National Theatre, Mr Henry Herbert Malm – himself a former journalist – acknowledged the findings without denial and immediately initiated a two-week process to restore the facility.
On Friday, September 11, 2026, DisabilityNewsGH.com conducted a follow-up verification tour and confirmed that management had fulfilled its promise.
Technical Upgrades and Structural Improvements
A physical inspection of the renovated washroom revealed major plumbing, sanitary and structural improvements:
Complete Replacement of Urinal Bowl: The old urinal bowl was dismantled and replaced with a brand-new modern unit fitted with an automated flush system.
Restoration of Toilet Flush System: The faulty flush mechanism of the main water closet was completely replaced.
Improved Lighting: When the DisabilityNewsGH.com team flagged poor illumination during the follow-up visit, staff immediately upgraded the lighting inside the facility, even after the Executive Director had stepped away to attend another meeting.
Photo Description: Newly installed toilet flush system with the seat, urinal bowl and wash basin all fitted with grab bars in the accessible washroom at the National Theatre
Dedicated Security and Sanitation Protocol
To prevent future misuse and improper storage, Mr Malm announced a new operational protocol.
The PWD washroom will now remain open on all show days, with a dedicated cleaner stationed at the entrance to maintain hygiene and ensure the facility is reserved exclusively for patrons with disabilities.
“Because of the spacious nature of the place, non-disabled patrons were previously tempted to use it,” Mr Malm explained. “With a dedicated staff member stationed at the entrance on event days, that is not going to happen again.”
A Model of Receptive Leadership: “We Are Now Partners”
Mr Malm commended DisabilityNewsGH.com for constructive, development-focused journalism and invited future collaboration.
“I am here to serve the public, which includes solving problems when they arise. Feel free to walk into this facility at any time and draw my attention directly to any issue. If I fail to address it, then you can go public. We are now partners,” he said.
On broader accessibility upgrades, Mr Malm explained that major structural overhauls are being aligned with ongoing government discussions for a comprehensive rehabilitation of the entire complex to avoid wasteful spending.
In the interim, he pledged to sensitise show organisers, theatre staff and ushers to provide special assistance and seamless access for patrons with disabilities during all public events.
Journalism That Delivers Impact
The outcome demonstrates the value of constructive engagement. When the report broke on July 31, there was no attempt to cover up or issue defensive statements. Instead, management verified the findings, accepted the reality, and fixed the problem within the promised timeline.
Beyond the washroom restoration, management had earlier agreed during the August 14 engagement to ensure show organisers provide permanent reserved seating near auditorium entrances.
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com
