Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has called for a more inclusive society, emphasising that disability can affect anyone, irrespective of wealth or education.

Speaking at the inaugural Disability Conversation hosted by the John Agyekum Kufuor Foundation, former President Kufuor reflected on his own life experience, sharing how unforeseen circumstances have left him reliant on a wheelchair.

“Look at me today. If someone had said ten years ago that I would be in a wheelchair today, perhaps, he would have been disputed and damned as a false prophet. But this prophecy is the reality today. I’m in a wheelchair, I cannot walk, and I need about four, five, six hefty men to be pushing me around like a baby,” former President Kufuor remarked.

The former president stressed the need for greater societal acceptance of persons living with disabilities, calling for their full integration into all aspects of life.

"We cannot afford to leave any segment of our society behind. We must appreciate our differences and individual challenges, and work towards integrating everyone as an integral part of the human race," former President Kufuor urged.

He also highlighted the importance of the Disability Act, calling for a society where every individual, including those with disabilities, feels safe, valued, and protected.

At the same event, former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko called for stricter regulations on public infrastructure to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities.

He criticised the approval of buildings and roads that do not meet accessibility standards.

“I struggle to understand how an engineer can approve a building or road construction that doesn’t comply with specific codes. It reflects poorly on us to cut corners. We need to recognise that disability is a universal condition. All humanity experiences disability in different forms and degrees,” Mr. Agyarko said.

Several individuals with disabilities also shared their experiences during the event, encouraging the public to see them for their abilities rather than their challenges.