GEA sensitises PWDs on Enterprise Support Programme towards economic empowerment

The Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) has sensitized the Ashanti Regional Association of Persons Living With Disabilities (PWDs) on the Enterprise Support Programme aimed at economic empowerment and self-reliance.

Mr. Isaac Agyenim Boateng, Senior Business Advisor at the Ghana Enterprise Agency, explained that the PWDs Enterprise Support Programme is a nationwide initiative for persons with disabilities, supported by the Government of Ghana and the World Bank, adding that the program is designed to assist all physically disabled persons.

He added that individuals who meet the aforementioned qualifications can apply through the GEA to receive support to either expand their existing businesses or as start-up capital for new ventures.

During the session, members were given an overview of the grant support programme, including details about the design, application processes, and information on twelve different business sectors.

Some of these sectors include Agriculture, Agribusiness, Manufacturing, Construction, and Education. He also mentioned that members can seek guidance on the application process from business advisory offices in various districts.

The main goal of the support grant is to help members, especially those currently begging on the streets, transition to more stable and sustainable jobs.

Mr. Eric Oti Nyarko, the Ashanti Regional Manager of the Ghana Enterprise Agency (GEA), emphasized that the support grant is available to all disabled individuals, regardless of their specific category, as long as they can successfully apply.

He highlighted that the grant could also serve as start-up capital for unemployed disabled individuals and those currently begging on the streets.

He emphasized the importance of using the grant for its intended purpose and avoiding any misuse of funds.

He encouraged successful applicants to utilize the support grant to benefit themselves and their families.

Mr. Stephen Djan, Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Ghana Association of Physically Disabled, expressed concern about the challenges faced by the association's members.

He emphasized that begging on the streets is a result of the hardships that disabled individuals endure, particularly in Africa.

He called on the government to empower members, believing that this could help alleviate the suffering of disabled individuals in society.

On behalf of the association, he expressed gratitude to the leadership of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) for organizing such a beneficial sensitization program. He assured that he and his members would make the most of this opportunity to achieve the goals of the GEA.