By: Kekeli K. Blamey
Mr. Israel Akrobotu, the Volta Regional Director of the Department of Children, has made a passionate appeal to stakeholders to join forces in protecting children with visual impairment. Speaking at a stakeholder meeting attended by religious leaders, traditional authorities, and Muslim representatives, Mr Akrobotu emphasized the need for collective action.
“Protecting children, including those with visual impairment, requires a collaborative effort. We must work together to create a supportive environment. “The meeting was part of a program implemented by the Department of Children in collaboration with Visio International, a Netherlands-based Non-governmental Organization, aimed at supporting visually impaired children in 60 communities in the country.
Mr Akrobotu stressed that children with visual impairment require specific support to thrive. “They need access to information in alternative formats, assistive technology, specialized education support, and mobility training and orientation,” he explained. He also urged stakeholders to advocate for accessible educational materials, inclusive and safe physical environments, vision-related healthcare and rehabilitation, cultural and recreational activities in accessible formats.
Citing biblical passages, including John 9:1-3, Leviticus 19:14, and Proverbs 31:8-9, the Director highlighted God’s call to care for the weak and vulnerable. “As people of faith, we have a responsibility to ensure that these children are protected and supported. “Traditional and Religious leaders were tasked with community mobilization, disability awareness, referral, and resource provision.
Mr Akrobotu encouraged them to use their influence to promote inclusivity and support. They were also encouraged to collaborate and provide support to visually impaired children.”By working together, we can create inclusive programs that benefit these children and serve as role models to them,” he said.
He warned that neglecting these children’s rights would leave them vulnerable to abuse. “When we fail to protect them, they will be vulnerable to all kinds of abuses. Therefore, we must work together to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for visually impaired children in our various communities and churches.”
Reverend Wonder Ahotor, the District Pastor of the Global Evangelical Church at Mepe pledged to bring eye nurses for community education and child screenings in the church. “We would not marginalize these children. They are equally important in the church.”
He said that measures would be put in place to give the visually impaired children the opportunity to preach, sing, and partake in all church activities. Reverend Ahotor entreated other pastors to emulate same.
Togbe Torkpo III, a Sub-Chief in Battor commended the government through the Department of Children for mobilizing efforts to sensitize stakeholders on protecting children with visual impairment in the country. He stated that he would organize community engagements to educate parents on same.
