Ghana has joined countries around the world in observing the 2026 Global Week of Inclusion, with a call for greater acceptance, equal opportunities and the protection of the rights of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The five-day campaign, which runs from July 20 to July 24, was officially launched at the forecourt of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly by Special Olympics Ghana in collaboration with government agencies, disability advocates, educators and development partners.
Marked under the symbol of the red ribbon, the annual Global Week of Inclusion seeks to encourage schools, workplaces, communities and public institutions to embrace inclusive practices and create opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to participate fully in society.
Speaking at the launch, Sports and Development Officer for Special Olympics Africa, Patrick Nzuzi, urged Ghanaians to embrace inclusive sport, describing it as a powerful tool for changing attitudes and promoting social inclusion.
He noted that the benefits of inclusion extend beyond sports, stressing that society must create environments where persons with intellectual disabilities are respected, valued and given equal opportunities.
Programmes Officer for Physical Education and Sports at the Ghana Education Service (GES), Cynthia Wise, underscored the importance of ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, has access to physical education and sporting activities.
According to her, adapted sports not only improve the health and social development of children with special needs but also provide pathways to national and international competitions, including the Special Olympics and Paralympic Games.
Deputy Board Chair of Special Olympics Ghana, ACP Thomas Darkwah, called for greater commitment to inclusion, stressing that access to education, healthcare, employment and sports for persons with intellectual disabilities is a matter of justice rather than charity.
He expressed appreciation to Special Olympics Africa, the global Special Olympics movement and other partners for supporting Ghana’s participation in this year’s campaign.
Executive Director of the ROBBFoundation, Mavis Asantewaa Opoku, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting children with intellectual disabilities through sports development.
She said the Foundation works closely with Special Olympics Ghana to identify and nurture young athletes, helping them progress from grassroots programmes to international competitions while advocating for greater inclusion across society.
The 2026 Global Week of Inclusion is being observed simultaneously in several countries, with Special Olympics programmes across Africa organising activities aimed at raising awareness and advancing the rights of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Organisers say the campaign serves as a reminder that inclusion is a shared responsibility and have called on all sectors of society to ensure that no one is left behind because of disability.
