ADPA, OKERE MP and DISTRICT ASSEMBLY LAUNCH LIVESTOCK TRAINING PROGEAMME FOR 50 PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN LIFE-CHANGING LIVELIHOOD PROJECT
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ADPA, Gomoa East Assembly Sign Landmark MoU to Promote Inclusive Governance and Empower Persons with Disabilities
Gomoa Potsin, Central Region — Thursday, October 9, 2025
In a landmark move toward inclusive local development, the African Disability Policy Advocates (ADPA) and the Gomoa East Municipal Assembly have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance disability inclusion, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods within the municipality.
The agreement, signed at a colourful ceremony in Gomoa Potsin, establishes a long-term partnership framework to implement two major programmes — the Inclusive Policy and Governance Programme and the Disability-Inclusive Livelihoods, Food Security, and Climate Resilience Programme.
Under the MoU, ADPA — a regional advocacy organisation headquartered in Accra with a regional office in Senegal — will collaborate with the Assembly to strengthen disability-responsive governance and improve opportunities for persons with disabilities through advocacy, training, and technical assistance.
The Inclusive Policy and Governance Programme aims to promote disability rights through:
• Local policy advocacy and awareness campaigns,
• Technical assistance for inclusive budgeting and legal reforms, and
• The establishment and operationalisation of a Disability Desk within the Assembly.
The second initiative, the Livelihoods and Climate Resilience Programme, focuses on:
• Supporting inclusive agriculture and livestock initiatives,
• Promoting disability-inclusive climate policies and resilience planning at the district level, and
• Creating green job opportunities and adaptive skills training for youth and women with disabilities.
Delivering his remarks, Hon. Jeff Tetteh Kavianu, ADPA’s Director of International Diplomacy and Policy, praised the Gomoa East Assembly for its progressive leadership, describing the partnership as “a bold commitment to ensuring that inclusion is not optional, but essential for Ghana’s sustainable future.”
He further commended the Assembly’s establishment of a Disability Desk and its hosting of the UN International Day of Hope, noting that such actions demonstrate “true local leadership and commitment to inclusive governance.”
On her part, Hon. Margaret Naana Ackom, Municipal Chief Executive of Gomoa East, expressed optimism about the partnership, emphasizing that persons with disabilities are “not just beneficiaries but partners in development.”
“We are determined to build a community where every citizen — regardless of ability — can contribute meaningfully to local and national progress,” she said.
The MoU, effective from October 2025, will guide collaborative programmes in policy development, livelihood empowerment, and capacity building over the next three years.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to making Gomoa East a national model for inclusive local governance, aligning with Ghana’s development agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision of a fair and inclusive Africa.
ADPA, Nkwanta South Assembly Roll Out Life-Changing Livelihood Programme for Persons with Disabilities
Hope is on the horizon for persons with disabilities in Nkwanta South as the African Disability Policy Advocates (ADPA) and the Municipal Assembly have signed a groundbreaking agreement to transform lives through inclusive governance and sustainable livelihoods.
The partnership, sealed in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday, 3rd October 2025, will open new doors in agriculture, climate resilience, and green jobs for persons with disabilities, while also strengthening their voice in local governance.
At the signing ceremony, Hon. Joseph Awal Antwi, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), pledged the Assembly’s full support. “This programme is about giving dignity and opportunity to our brothers and sisters living with disabilities. No one should be left behind,” he said.
„For many in Nkwanta South, this is not just a policy shift — it’s a promise of dignity, inclusion, and real opportunity.“ headed
ADPA’s team was led by Mariam Nyarkoah Amponsah, Head of Communication and Administration, with support from Ms. Faustina Asantewaa Ntiamoah, Policy and Advocacy Support Volunteer. The organisation, which has its headquarters in Accra, is well known for pushing disability-inclusive policies across Ghana and the wider region.
For Kwame Mensah, a 32-year-old farmer living with a physical disability in Nkwanta South, the programme offers hope he thought he had lost. “I have the skills to farm, but I don’t have the tools or support. If this project helps me get access to land and training, I can finally provide for my family. Now I can dream again,” he told the Evening Tribune.
What the Programme Covers
The new initiative will run on two main tracks:
• Inclusive Governance: Creating a Disability Desk at the Assembly, supporting inclusive budgeting, and championing disability rights in local decision-making.
• Livelihoods & Climate Resilience: Supporting persons with disabilities in agriculture and livestock projects, promoting green jobs, and equipping young people with adaptive skills to thrive in the face of climate change.
ADPA has committed to provide technical expertise, training, and resource mobilisation, while the Assembly will ensure the programme is fully integrated into district development plans.
The collaboration is already being hailed as a model for other districts in Ghana, with hopes that it will significantly reduce poverty and improve food security for persons with disabilities.
ADPA, Okere MP launch livestock project to train 50 persons with disabilities in life-changing livelihood programme
In a landmark step towards inclusive development, the African Disability Policy Advocates (ADPA) and the Okere District Assembly on 12th September 2025, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Adukrom-Akuapem to launch a livestock empowerment programme that will train 50 persons with disabilities in the district.
The initiative, hailed as a first of its kind in the area, seeks to provide sustainable livelihoods, food security, and long-term empowerment for vulnerable groups while promoting inclusive local governance.
Speaking at the brief but symbolic ceremony, the Member of Parliament for Okere Constituency, Hon. Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth, expressed his excitement at the partnership and pledged his support.
“This programme is a true investment in human dignity. I am hopeful that after two years, it will be scaled up and institutionalised as a permanent district initiative,” he remarked.
The MoU, signed by ADPA’s Hon. Jeff Tetteh Kavianu, Director of International Diplomacy and Policy, Hon. Daniel Nana Addo Kenneth and the District Chief Executive, Hon. Eric William Ayitey, sets out a framework for disability-inclusive governance and climate-resilient livelihoods.
Under the agreement, ADPA will provide technical assistance, training, and resources, while the Assembly commits to integrating disability rights into district policies, budgets, and programmes. A Disability Desk will also be established within the Assembly to champion advocacy and service delivery.
President of the local Disability Association and the District Disability Desk Officer praised ADPA’s vision, describing the programme as “a timely lifeline for persons with disabilities who too often remain excluded from mainstream development opportunities.”
Traditional leaders, social workers, and district executives were present at the event and expressed gratitude to ADPA for choosing Okere as a model district.
The initiative falls under ADPA’s broader Disability-Inclusive Livelihoods, Food Security, and Climate Resilience Programme, aimed at ensuring persons with disabilities are not left behind in agriculture, green jobs, and climate action.
As the ink dries on the partnership, the people of Okere look forward to a future where disability inclusion is not just a promise, but a permanent pillar of community development.
ADPA Joins Continental Push for Gender Equality Law in Africa
A high-powered delegation from the African Disability Policy Advocates (ADPA) has taken part in the Continental Consultation on the Draft Model Law on Gender Equality and Equity, hosted in Accra from September 8–11, 2025, under the auspices of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP).
The ADPA team was led by Hon. Sanja Nanja, Member of Parliament for Atebubu-Amantin and a member of board of Trustee of ADPA, alongside Mrs. Mariam Nyarkoah Amponsah, the organisation’s Communications Director and Head of Administration.
The consultation marks a historic step in shaping a harmonised African legal framework that promotes gender equality and equity across the continent. It brought together stakeholders from African Union organs, national and regional parliaments, UN agencies, civil society, academia, and development partners.
A Pan-African Mandate
The Draft Model Law, first introduced at PAP’s July 2025 Ordinary Session after technical review in Yaoundé, is designed as a soft-law instrument to help AU Member States strengthen national laws and policies on gender equality. It aligns with PAP Resolution PAP.6/PLN/RES/14/NOV.22 (2022), which recognised that harmonised legal frameworks are vital to closing gender gaps and promoting equal participation in political, social, and economic life.
Why It Matters
By ensuring inclusive participation, the consultation gives African citizens, institutions, and civil society a direct role in shaping the future of gender equity legislation. Once finalised, the Model Law is expected to serve as a rights-based reference framework for all AU Member States, supporting the ratification and domestication of treaties that advance gender equality.
Hon. Sanja Nanja described ADPA’s participation as “a firm commitment to ensure that disability rights, particularly those of women and girls with disabilities, are fully integrated into the continental gender equality agenda.”
The Pan-African Parliament is expected to table and potentially adopt the final version of the Model Law at a future plenary session — a landmark in Africa’s pursuit of One Africa, One Voice on gender justice.
ADPA Hosts First-Ever UN International Day of Hope in Ghana
African Disability Policy Advocates Leads Historic Event in Partnership with Gomoa East Assembly.
In a groundbreaking moment for disability inclusion and global solidarity, the African Disability Policy Advocates (ADPA) on Friday, July 10, 2025, successfully organised the first-ever United Nations International Day of Hope on African soil. The event, held at Gomoa Potsin in the Central Region, was hosted in proud partnership with the Gomoa East Municipal Assembly.
The historic gathering drew a powerful mix of traditional leaders, members of Parliament, local authorities, musicians, media practitioners, and over a hundred persons with disabilities from across the country. Their presence underscored a growing national commitment to visibility, empowerment, and equality for persons living with disabilities.
The programme was rich with solidarity messages delivered by representatives of Ghana’s Parliament, disability rights organizations, and Queen Mothers of the area—each reaffirming the importance of inclusion, dignity, and shared humanity.
The highlight of the ceremony was a stirring keynote address by the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, who praised the organisers and called for greater policy action and investment in mental health and disability-friendly infrastructure.
“Hope is not charity. Hope is a right,” the Minister declared. “And today, Ghana leads Africa in affirming that right for every person living with a disability.”
This inaugural Day of Hope is expected to become an annual fixture in Ghana’s social calendar and a rallying point for inclusive development across the continent.
ADPA Honoures Hon. Naana Ackom for Championing Disability Rights
Gomoa Potsin — In a moment of celebration and national pride, Hon. Naana Ackom, the Metropolitan Chief Executive of Gomoa East, has been presented with a Certificate of Recognition by the African Disability Policy Advocates (ADPA) for her exceptional leadership in promoting disability rights and social inclusion in Ghana.
The award, officially conferred during the commemoration of the United Nations International Day of Hope, recognizes Hon. Ackom’s “exemplary leadership, unwavering passion for social inclusion, and dedicated commitment to public service.”
Her efforts to promote the dignity, well-being, and empowerment of persons with disabilities — as well as those affected by mental health challenges — were described as “a powerful example of inclusive and compassionate governance” by the ADPA.
The certificate was formally presented by Ms. Aida Sarr, Executive Director of the African Disability Policy Advocates, in the presence of distinguished guests, traditional leaders, and representatives from the disability community.
“We are proud to honor Hon. Naana Ackom as an ideal host for this important commemoration. Her work in the Gomoa East Municipality continues to uplift the voices of the marginalized and redefine the role of leadership in inclusive development,” said Ms. Sarr.
The event marks a historic milestone for Gomoa East, further establishing the district as a progressive hub for disability advocacy and inclusive governance in Africa.
ADPA and GFD Launch Disability Desk Pilot with Local Assemblies
GOMOA Potsin, CENTRAL REGION – In a bold step toward inclusive governance and disability mainstreaming, the African Disability Policy Advocates (ADPA), in collaboration with the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), has officially launched a pilot programme to establish disability desks across all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in Ghana.
The first consultative meeting under this initiative was successfully held today at the Gomoa East Municipal Assembly in the Central Region. The meeting brought together local government officials, disability rights advocates, and policy stakeholders to begin the process of integrating disability-focused services within the local governance framework.
Leading the ADPA delegation was Ms. Mariam Nyarkoah Amponsah, Director of Communication and Administration, who emphasized the importance of institutionalising disability desks to improve access, representation, and service delivery for persons with disabilities at the grassroots level.
“This marks a new era in our collective journey toward inclusion,” Ms. Amponsah said. “By establishing dedicated disability desks, we are ensuring that the voices and concerns of persons with disabilities are no longer sidelined in local governance.”
The Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations was represented by its Central Regional President, Mr. Charles Ocran, who lauded the initiative as a long-overdue step in fulfilling the commitments of Ghana’s Disability Act and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
“This pilot is not just symbolic—it is foundational. Every MMDA must recognize that inclusive development starts with inclusive planning,” Mr. Ocran noted.
The Deputy Chief Director of the Gomoa East Municipal Assembly represented the Assembly at the meeting and affirmed the Assembly’s readiness to support the implementation of the disability desk, pledging collaboration and logistical support.
This pilot programme is expected to be scaled to other districts in the coming months, with ADPA and GFD working jointly to provide technical support, training, and monitoring frameworks for sustainability.
A Nation Becoming More Inclusive
The move has been widely welcomed by disability advocates and civic groups as a progressive approach to ensuring equal participation in local decision-making, resource allocation, and community development.
Celebrating Strength and calling for Change: Women with Disabilities Take the Spotlight in Cote D'Ivoire
On Friday, May 30th, the disability community in Port-Bouët, Côte d’Ivoire came together for a powerful and emotional celebration dedicated to women with disabilities. Held at the local pilot centre, the event—organized by the Mouvement des Personnes Handicapées de Côte d’Ivoire (MPH-CI) and COPH-CI, in partnership with the African Disability Policy Advocates (ADPA)—was more than just a ceremony. It was a declaration of strength, resilience, and a collective call for justice.
The atmosphere was rich with emotion. Artistic performances, heartfelt speeches, and vibrant displays of culture filled the air, honoring the courage and capabilities of women who, despite systemic exclusion, continue to rise and lead.
A Powerful Message of Inclusion and Justice
One of the most moving moments of the event came during the keynote speech delivered by the Executive Director of ADPA, Aida Sarr. In her address, she expressed deep pride in standing in solidarity with women with disabilities in Côte d’Ivoire, emphasising the urgent need to affirm their rights and amplify their voices.
“We are gathered here to celebrate motherhood, elevate the abilities of women with disabilities, build their self-esteem—and above all, to affirm their right to live free from all forms of violence.”
Her words came against the backdrop of a major milestone: the recent adoption of the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (CEVAWG). This groundbreaking regional treaty marks a significant step forward in protecting women and girls—including those with disabilities—from systemic violence and discrimination.
“This is a convention for justice.
A convention for dignity.
A convention for true equality.”
She reminded attendees that this new convention complements existing legal frameworks like the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), the Maputo Protocol, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights—tools that advocates must continue to use and promote across the continent.
The Reality: Double Discrimination
One clear message resonated throughout the event: the experience of women with disabilities is often marked by double discrimination—as women, and as persons with disabilities. This intersectional injustice frequently renders them invisible in public policies and development initiatives.
“Gender- and disability-based violence is not a destiny—it is a social, cultural, and political construct. And like any construct, it can be dismantled.”
With that, she issued a bold call to action. She urged government institutions, civil society, donors, and technical partners to support the finalisation and adoption of the Pan-African Parliament’s Model Law on Gender Equality and Equity. This model law provides a clear path for integrating the rights of women with disabilities into national legislation and ending harmful, exclusionary norms.
Voices of Leadership and Support
Koffi N’tawo Germaine, President of COPH-CI, opened the ceremony by reinforcing the importance of inclusion and equal opportunity. Her message encouraged the women present to not only celebrate their roles as mothers but to also continue demanding their right to live free from violence and marginalization.
Looking Ahead: Toward an Inclusive Africa
This wasn’t just a day of celebration—it was a moment of awakening and mobilization. It reminded everyone present that building the Africa we want—just, inclusive, and equal—requires intentional action, solidarity, and political will.
“We must listen to the voices that have been silenced for too long. Together, we can bring these laws and conventions to life. Together, we can build a continent where every woman, every girl, including those with disabilities, feels seen, protected, and empowered.”
ADPA, OKERE MP and DISTRICT ASSEMBLY LAUNCH LIVESTOCK TRAINING PROGEAMME FOR 50 PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN LIFE-CHANGING LIVELIHOOD PROJECT
ADPA Honoures Hon. Naana Ackom for Championing Disability Rights
