ACCRA, GHANA – In a powerful testament to the global reach of Rotary, the Rotary Club of Accra-South (District 9104) and District 7620 (USA) have joined forces to launch a transformative Global Grant project: the Ghana Project on Economic Development for the Disabled (GPEDD).

This initiative is specifically designed to uplift marginalized members of our society—Polio victims and persons with physical disabilities—by providing them with the tools, training, and mobility necessary to reclaim their independence and dignity.

The Challenge: Beyond Physical Barriers

In Ghana, an estimated 20,000 people live with physical disabilities, often facing severe economic exclusion. Without access to mobility equipment, many are confined to their homes, unable to seek employment or engage in small-scale entrepreneurship. The GPEDD project addresses this gap directly, moving beyond charity toward sustainable empowerment.

The GPEDD project is built on three core goals designed to create lasting change for its initial 50 beneficiaries across Greater Accra, Ashanti, Volta, and several other regions:

1. Economic Empowerment: Improving the financial stability of Polio victims and disabled individuals.

2. Technological Mobility: Providing high-quality, specialized wheelchairs that allow beneficiaries to travel to work or run small businesses.

3. Capacity Building: Offering intensive training on both employment skills and the technical maintenance of their mobility equipment.

This project is made possible through a robust network of international and local collaborators:

• The Ghana Society of the Physically Disabled (GSPD): Leading the identification of beneficiaries and providing localized training.

• Wheels for Change, Inc. (USA): Founded by Paralympic champions Daniel Romanchuk and Raphael Botsyo, this non-profit brings world-class expertise in wheelchair selection and durability.

• Rotary Leadership Institute (Ghana Division): Ensuring that leadership and vocational training are of the highest standard.

The project is guided by a diverse team of Rotarians and specialists:

• International Team (District 7620): Led by Project Manager Paul Mahata, Ph.D., alongside technical expert Richard Wilcher and coordinator Mary Jo Burkett.

• Host Team (Accra-South): Spearheaded by Club President Klenam Fiadzoe, Service Project Chair Shika Acolatse, and Partnership Manager Francis Decker.

• Advisory Committee: A six-member powerhouse including Pauline Simmons, Dr. Kuhu Maitra, Jennifer Zimmer, Kim Romanchuk, Raphael Botsyo, and Emmanuel Laryea.

A standout feature of this grant is the establishment of a wheelchair maintenance and repair facility by the GSPD. This facility will remain operational long after the grant cycle concludes, ensuring that the mobility provided today remains a permanent asset for the community.