In a world that often overlooks the quiet heroics of the marginalised, a historic celebration unfolded in Accra this week, proving that the bond of motherhood is a force that no barrier can break.
On Wednesday, 13 May, the Voices of Women and Children with Disabilities in Ghana (VOWACGhana) hosted a moving Mother’s Day ceremony to honour 30 remarkable women – mothers with disabilities and dedicated caregivers of children with disabilities.
The event was far more than a traditional celebration; it was a powerful symphony of advocacy, visibility, and unyielding love.
The Unbroken Anchor
A soul-stirring highlight of the day was the premiere of a documentary titled “The Unbroken Anchor.” The film offered a rare and intimate glimpse into the lives of these women, weaving together tales of resilience that moved many in the audience to tears.
The documentary laid bare the “lived realities” of mothers with disabilities, showing how they navigate a world not built for them to raise the next generation of Ghanaian citizens.
It served as a testament to the fact that while their bodies may face limitations, their spirits act as stable, unyielding anchors for their families.
“Love is Inventive”: A Revolutionary Strength
The National Council on Persons with Disability (NCPD) delivered a stirring tribute that echoed the documentary’s emotional depth.
Executive Secretary, Mr Edwin Kweku Andoh, noted that these mothers are not just survivors, but creators.
“To the mothers who live with disabilities: you have shown us that motherhood is defined by devotion, not by limitation,” Mr Andoh stated. “Your resilience is creativity in action – a daily rewriting of what is possible. Love is inventive, dignity is non-negotiable, and community is the engine of lasting change.”
In a statement of solidarity, the Council described the love of a mother with disability as nothing short of a “revolution.”
“To every caregiver: your compassion is a public good. You knit the social fabric that holds families together. You are seen. You are valued. You are essential,” the Council declared.
Honouring the Sacrifice
The atmosphere turned celebratory as the 30 mothers and caregivers were presented with gifts. These tokens of appreciation were given not just for their labour, but as a symbolic recognition that disability is not a barrier to procreation or the successful raising of a family.
“We reaffirm that disability should never be a barrier to parenting, leadership, care, dignity, or participation in society,” VOWACGhana stated. “We call on communities to work collectively toward creating an inclusive Ghana where these remarkable women receive the support, respect, and protection they deserve.”
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com