The Henry Djaba Memorial Foundation (HDMF) in collaboration with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Ghana has organized the first ever Ability Fair for persons with disability (PWDs), to exhibit their unique talents, artifacts, products, goods and services. It was a two-day fair under the theme: “Creating Opportunities for Persons with Disability” was held at the forecourt of Mikaddo Pharmacy from 30th to 31st July 2021.
Welcoming the participants to the event, the Executive Director of the Henry Djaba Memorial Foundation, Ms. Otiko Afisah Djaba, said the Ability Fair is necessary to facilitate inclusion of PWDs and showcase their great talents so as to provide the necessary marketing and employment opportunities for them. She used the opportunity to appeal to the general public not to discriminate against them but rather support them by patronizing their products. “Although this is the maiden edition, I can assure you that it would be organised every year because it will provide them an independent and sustainable future” Hon Otiko Afisa Djaba echoed.
Speaking on behalf of the UNFPA Resident Representative, Niyi Ojuolape, Ms. Dela Bright Gle, a programme analyst at the UNFPA Country Office, reiterated the need to give PWDs access to training, job opportunities and sensitization on sexual and reproductive health rights. This she said will empower and enable them to make informed decisions about their life. She recounted that the UNFPA Ghana agenda aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal principle, of leaving no one behind hence the need to involve all persons in development of the country.
Participating in the two-day event were a range of institutions including: The Dzorwulu Special School, Autism Awareness Centre and Akuropong School for the Blind to mention just a few.
The Brand Ambassador for the programme Okyeame Kwame and Adelaide the Seer performed with sterling music and dance to show their support for the programme.
