Since 1992, the United Nations (UN) has observed and celebrated December 3 as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
This year’s theme is “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”
Over the years, there has been notable progress, particularly in the areas of acceptance, integration, and inclusion of disability as a human condition globally. Africa, as a continent, has made significant strides in this regard.
In Ghana, the 1992 Constitution made explicit provisions to prohibit any form of abuse or discrimination, whether cultural or otherwise, against persons with disabilities.
Building on this foundation, Ghana passed the seminal Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715) under the leadership of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, in alignment with the Constitution and international conventions.
As we commemorate 32 years of this globally recognized day, we remind Ghanaians that it is a legal offence to denigrate, discriminate, or deny persons with disabilities their rightful place as equal citizens of the country.
Sections 4(1) and 37(1) & (2) of Act 715 explicitly prohibit derogatory language or any form of discrimination against disabilities, whether temporary or permanent. Violating these provisions is punishable by law.
Let us strive to foster an environment of respect, inclusivity, and collective understanding, embracing disability as a human condition that manifests as:
- A medical or biological impairment
- An activity limitation
- A participatory restriction
- A combination of any of the above
In light of recent attacks on former President John Agyekum Kufuor for his use of a wheelchair at the age of 86, we reiterate that ageing has been identified as a form of disability since Mark Priestley’s 2003 theoretical work.
To disrespect an octogenarian who has made invaluable contributions to the nation is to undermine the very fabric of our culture and humanity. Such acts must never be repeated.
May God bless our homeland Ghana and strengthen our resolve to support the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities, ensuring our nation remains great and strong.
James Kwabena Bomfeh Jnr., Ph.D.
Executive Director, Rights of Youth and Disability (RYD) International