Africa-Press – Ghana. The Africa Disability Institute (ADI), a leading African centre for disability rights research and inclusion policy, has welcomed the Government’s decision to increase the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) allocation for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to 5 per cent from 3 per cent in the 2026 National Budget.
ADI, also a social development advocacy entity, noted that the step marked a meaningful advancement in strengthening Ghana’s social protection system and enhancing the participation of PWDs in national and local development.
The 2026 National Budget outlines major investments across social services, education, employment and critical infrastructure.
ADI viewed these commitments as an important opportunity to embed disability inclusion more firmly into Ghana’s development framework.
In particular, the Institute commended the Government for covering Free Tertiary Education for PWDs in the budget following introduction of the policy recently, recognising it as a transformative measure that could expand opportunities for thousands of PWDs.
This policy will help enhance personal development, strengthen technical and professional skills, and position eligible PWDs to compete effectively for jobs within both the public and private sectors.
Commenting on the Budget, Mr. Francis Asong, Executive Director of ADI, stated: “We welcome the government’s commitment to social protection, however, true inclusivity requires intentional and systematic investment in the lives of persons with disabilities. Accessibility, assistive technology, inclusive education, and equitable employment must be at the centre of Ghana’s development agenda. Indeed, the 2026 Budget offers a historic opportunity to ensure no Ghanaian is left behind.”
“The Free Tertiary Education Policy, together with the increased DACF allocation, has the potential to significantly empower PWDs economically and socially. By removing financial barriers to higher education and ensuring better-funded support at the district level, PWDs will be better equipped to access professional pathways, participate in national job-creation initiatives, and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s economic growth.”
“ADI praises the Government for these commitments, they represent strong progress toward a more inclusive Ghana.”
ADI encouraged the Government, Parliament, and the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to take practical steps to maximise the benefits of these policies.
These include ensuring full accessibility of all new public infrastructure; integrating Braille, audio and large-print formats into national textbo
Fund and NHIS resources to essential assistive devices and rehabilitation services for PWDs as well as psychotropic medications for people with mental health conditions, and anti-epileptic drugs for persons with epilepsy.
ADI also called for clear guidelines and accountability mechanisms for managing the 5 per cent DACF allocation.
The Institute emphasised the need for the introduction of disability-inclusive employment quotas within public works and job-creation programmes targeting 800,000 new jobs, and stronger disability data systems to support effective planning and service delivery.
ADI is optimistic that the combination of expanded educational access, increased disability funding, and broader social investments could significantly accelerate Ghana’s commitment to leaving no one behind.
The Institute reiterated its readiness to collaborate with government agencies, development partners, civil society organisations and the disability movement to support full implementation of these important policy measures.
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