By Ghana Beacon Editorial Team
Published: May 4, 2026
KUMASI – The Ashanti Regional Minister convened a significant interactive session, engaging more than 600 persons living with disabilities (PWDs), widows, and widowers from across the region to discuss expanded social interventions and government support systems.
Sponsored by Kassab, the event provided a platform for direct dialogue between regional leadership and vulnerable groups, with a focus on forthcoming policy implementations designed to enhance dignity and economic inclusion.
Expansion of Financial Support
During the session, the Minister outlined substantial updates to the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) and the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme. In accordance with current administrative directives, the DACF allocation for PWDs has increased from 3% to 5%.
Additionally, the LEAP Programme will undergo significant expansion, targeting 400,000 households nationwide. This initiative is supported by a record GH¢1.1 billion allocation, constituting one of the largest social safety net investments in the country’s history.
Reforms in Education and Employment
The Minister emphasized several foundational elements of the government’s inclusive education and labor strategy:
- Free Tertiary Education: Beginning in 2026, persons with disabilities will receive full tuition waivers at all public tertiary institutions.
- GETFund Commitment: An annual allocation of GH¢50 million has been secured from 2025 to 2028 to specifically support disability and inclusive education initiatives.
- Special School Grants: Feeding grants for students in public special schools have nearly doubled, increasing from GH¢8 to GH¢15 per student per day.
- Employment Quotas: To address unemployment within the community, the government is implementing a minimum 5% employment quota for PWDs. Private sector companies that comply with this requirement will be eligible for designated tax incentives.
Pension and Social Welfare Initiatives
To provide additional support for retirees with disabilities, the Minister announced a 10% increase in monthly SSNIT pensions for disability beneficiaries, effective in 2026.
“These interventions reflect a strong commitment to inclusion, dignity, and improved livelihoods for vulnerable groups across the country,” the Minister stated.
The Minister concluded the session by recognizing the collaborative efforts of the Minister for Gender and Social Protection and the Social Welfare Department in streamlining these policies to ensure effective delivery to intended beneficiaries.
