By: Confidence Tsikudo
Women and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Wa have been empowered with vital knowledge and tools to confront sexual and gender-based violence, assert their rights, and seek justice when abused.
The one-day sensitization workshop, organized by Voices of Women and Children in Ghana (VOWAC), took place at the Wa School for the Blind on October 22. It brought together participants with diverse forms of disability, including the visually impaired, the deaf and hard of hearing, persons with albinism, and individuals with psychosocial challenges.
Speaking at the event, Juliana Afi Mahmood, Executive Director of VOWAC Ghana, said the training was part of the organization’s broader campaign to raise awareness of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) among vulnerable populations. She explained that many PWDs face unique risks due to dependency on caregivers and limited access to information and justice systems.
“Some of them face sexual harassment from those who are supposed to support them,” she said. “This training is meant to build their confidence so they can voice out their worries, understand their rights, and demand accountability.”
Mrs. Mahmood revealed that some reported cases involve disturbing acts such as unauthorized recording or photographing of PWDs in vulnerable situations, emphasizing that such violations must be treated as criminal offenses.
Participants also identified financial constraints as a major barrier to seeking medical attention or legal redress after abuse. Many shared that the high cost of medical reports and transportation to health or police facilities often prevents victims from reporting incidents.
One of the participants, Pellinipour Yorta, a student from the School for the Deaf who communicated via sign language through an interpreter, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn about SGBV and self-advocacy.
“I have learnt about sexual-based violence. I will encourage my colleagues to be bold to report anything unusual and stand up for their rights,” she said through a sign language interpreter. “If I experience anything wrong, I will first report to the police or my parents. This will make people treat us with respect, especially those who think our disabilities make us weak.”
The session was also featured on GBC’s Real Time Show, hosted by Darroll Allan Tagoe. GBC Upper West Regional Correspondent Sualah Abdul Wahab provided live coverage and interacted with participants.
As part of efforts to enhance communication, participants were introduced to digital tools and accessible reporting platforms, including short online systems and emergency helplines tailored for individuals with speech or hearing impairments.
The initiative forms part of VOWAC Ghana’s ongoing advocacy for inclusive protection systems, aiming to ensure that women and PWDs have equal access to justice, psychosocial support, and safe reporting channels.
Organizers and participants alike expressed optimism that the training would inspire more survivors to speak up and help communities build a culture of respect and protection for all, regardless of gender or disability.
