A visually impaired woman, Madam Deborah Adjei from Sekyere Kumawu in the Ashanti Region, has made an emotional appeal to the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, to encourage his colleague ministers to marry women living with disabilities as a way of promoting inclusivity and reducing stigma in society.
Madam Adjei made the appeal during a stakeholder engagement organized by the Minister to interact with persons with disabilities, widows, and orphans across the region.
The event, held at the Asokwa Interchange, brought together representatives from various disability groups and vulnerable communities.
Speaking passionately at the gathering, Madam Adjei highlighted the social challenges faced by women with disabilities, particularly in finding love and forming meaningful relationships.
According to her, societal perceptions and discrimination often leave them feeling marginalized and inferior.
“Our condition makes it difficult for us to find partners, and this affects our confidence and sense of belonging in society,” she said. “If ministers of state begin to marry women with disabilities, it will serve as a strong example and motivate other men to follow suit.”
She stressed that such actions by public figures would not only break stereotypes but also help normalize relationships involving persons with disabilities, thereby fostering greater acceptance and equality.
The engagement saw participation from disability groups across several districts, including the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Sekyere Kumawu, Kwadaso Municipal, Atwima Nwabiagya North and South, and Asante Akim North, among others.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council to engage vulnerable groups, understand their concerns, and promote policies aimed at improving their welfare and inclusion in society.
Observers at the event noted that the appeal underscores the need for deliberate societal efforts to address stigma and create equal opportunities for persons living with disabilities in all aspects of life, including marriage and family.
On his part, Dr. Frank Amoakohene noted that although he and some of his colleagues present are already married, he remains committed to supporting any man who is willing to marry a woman living with a disability.
source:Ayisah Foster
