The District Assemblies Common Fund (Dacf) And Communication: A Case Study Of The Ablekuma Central Municipal Assembly And Access For Persons With Disabilities (PWDS)

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of disability-inclusive communication strategies in facilitating equitable access to the District Assemblies Common Fund for Persons with Disabilities (DACF-PWD) in Ghana. Guided by a qualitative research design, the study explored how communication practices, institutional capacities, and participatory mechanisms shape the ability of persons with disabilities (PWDs) to access, understand, and engage with information related to the fund. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with PWDs, disability desk officers, municipal officials, and representatives of disability organizations, and analysed thematically using a multi-level interpretive approach. Findings reveal that although communication structures exist within the DACF-PWD scheme, they are insufficiently inclusive and often fail to account for the diverse accessibility needs of PWDs. Communication gaps emerged across multiple domains, including format accessibility, consistency of information flow, clarity of dissemination channels, and responsiveness of feedback systems. Institutional capacity constraints—particularly limited staff training in disability-inclusive communication—further weakened the effectiveness of outreach activities. However, partnerships with Disabled People’s Organizations (DPOs) and community leaders significantly enhanced comprehension, accessibility, and participation by translating technical information into formats that align with the lived realities of PWDs. The study concludes that effective disability-inclusive communication within the DACF-PWD scheme requires a system-wide approach that integrates accessible design, participatory processes, continuous capacity-building, and collaborative governance. Recommendations include strengthening institutional training, formalizing partnerships with DPOs, expanding multi-format communication materials, and establishing structured feedback mechanisms to promote transparency, accountability, and meaningful inclusion. These findings contribute to ongoing efforts to advance equitable social protection for PWDs in Ghana.