Hon. Dr. Clement Abass Apaak Champions Inclusive Development for Women and Girls with Disabilities
Hon. Dr. Clement Abass Apaak, Deputy Education Minister and Member of Parliament for Builsa South, delivered a powerful keynote speech at the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisation’s program, “Empower Her, Barrier Breakers Conference 2025.” The event, held as part of International Women’s Day 2025, celebrated the remarkable achievements of Ghana’s women and girls with disabilities.
Dr. Apaak emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers that have long prevented women and girls with disabilities from fully participating in leadership, education, employment, and decision-making. He highlighted the government’s commitment to inclusive development, citing initiatives such as:
Amending the Persons with Disability Act: to make disability rights fully enforceable and actionable
Introducing a legislative instrument to ensure disability inclusion is a legal obligation for all institutions
Implementing a standardized national sign language* to enhance accessibility in education, healthcare, and governance
Providing free tertiary education to persons with disabilities
Increasing representation of women with disabilities in leadership and governance through the affirmative action bill
Dr. Apaak also stressed the importance of the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability, which he is part of, in advocating for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities. The caucus has been working closely with organizations, experts, and government agencies to promote equal opportunities and support the implementation of disability-related policies and legislation.
As Dr. Apaak aptly put it, “Women with disabilities are not invisible. They are leaders, business owners, activists, and change-makers.” His speech was a call to action, emphasizing the need for collective commitment to inclusive development and the importance of recognizing the rights and contributions of women and girls with disabilities.
