Chairman of the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability, Dr. Clement Apaak, led Ghana’s delegation to a major disability conference in the United States.
The Builsa South Member of Parliament, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has highlighted Ghana’s participation in the 19th Session of the Conference of States Parties (COSP19) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, describing it as an important step in advancing the country’s disability inclusion agenda.
Sharing details of the trip on Facebook, Dr. Apaak said he was honoured to lead Ghana’s delegation to the conference in his capacity as Chairman of the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability.
“As chair of the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability, I was privileged to lead our delegation to the General Discussion of the 19th Session of the Conference of States Parties (COSP19) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities (CRPD) in the United States,” he wrote.
The conference brought together representatives from various countries to discuss progress made under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and explore strategies for addressing challenges confronting persons with disabilities around the world.
Dr. Apaak disclosed that Ghana’s participation was made possible through support from Parliament and acknowledged the role played by the Speaker of Parliament.
“Our historic and first-ever participation in the Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities (CRPD) was funded by Parliament,” he stated.
He added that the delegation was made up of five members of the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability and the Deputy Clerk of Parliament.
The Builsa South lawmaker said the conference offered an opportunity to evaluate progress made in disability inclusion while encouraging countries to strengthen efforts toward accessibility and equal opportunities.
According to him, Ghana’s presentation showcased several initiatives designed to improve the lives of persons with disabilities.
“I was really encouraged by Ghana’s presentation, which highlighted key initiatives including the proposed Persons with Disabilities Bill, increased support through the District Assemblies Common Fund, free tertiary education for persons with disabilities, and expanded social protection programmes,” he noted.
Dr. Apaak emphasised that despite the progress recorded, challenges remain and require continued attention.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to supporting policies that protect the rights, dignity and welfare of persons with disabilities and ensure that they play an active role in Ghana’s development.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana