Disability Federation Calls for Stronger Enforcement of Disability Rights as Ghana Marks National Disability Day

 The Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations (GFDO) has called for urgent action to fully implement and enforce disability rights as the nation commemorates National Disability Day 2026 and the 20th anniversary of the Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715).

This year's celebration is being held on the theme, "From Act to Action: Finalizing Reforms and Enforcing Disability Rights Now and Beyond," underscoring the need to translate legal protections into tangible improvements in the lives of persons with disabilities.

In a statement marking the occasion, the Regional President of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations, Elikplim Klu, said while the passage of Act 715 two decades ago marked a significant milestone, much remains to be done to ensure its full implementation.

He stressed that disability rights must move beyond policy commitments and become enforceable realities through stronger institutional reforms, effective implementation, and sustained political will.

According to him, achieving an inclusive society requires the collective efforts of government, civil society organizations, the private sector, development partners, and citizens to remove barriers that continue to limit opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Klu emphasized the need for greater investment in accessible public infrastructure, inclusive education, decent employment opportunities, comprehensive social protection programmes, and the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes at all levels.

As we celebrate two decades of the Disability Act, we must move beyond promises and ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities are fully protected, implemented, and enforced," he said.

She further called on all stakeholders to renew their commitment to building a more inclusive Ghana where no one is left behind and where disability rights are fully recognized as fundamental human rights.

National Disability Day serves as an opportunity to reflect on Ghana's progress in promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities while highlighting the need for accelerated reforms to ensure the objectives of Act 715 are fully realised.