The Wum Council has taken a step towards fostering an inclusive society by distributing its 2025 social assistance aid to 40 persons with various disabilities (Pwds) within the municipality. The initiative underscores the council’s commitment to integrating all residents into the council’s social and economic fabric.
The distribution event, held recently, was chaired by the 2nd Assistant Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Menchum, Nkwah Boris. Presiding over the ceremony, Lord Mayor Dighambong Anthony Mvo addressed the beneficiaries, emphasizing the importance of judiciously utilizing the financial assistance provided.
“To each one of you, our resilient and esteemed persons with disability, as you receive this social assistance facilitated by the dedicated Wum Council, I stand before you today as a voice affirming our government’s unwavering commitment to your well-being and inclusion. This assistance is more than just a financial handout; it is a tangible expression of solidarity, an investment in your dignity, and a recognition of the invaluable contribution each of you makes to our society. We understand the unique challenges you navigate daily, and this initiative is designed to alleviate burdens, empower your independence, and open doors to greater opportunities. May this aid serve as a stepping stone towards a brighter future, and know that the Ministry of Social Affairs, in partnership with local authorities like the Wum Council, remains dedicated to fostering a society where every person, regardless of ability, can thrive with dignity and purpose. I urge you, persons with disabilities, to make good use of the financial assistance given to you, I want you to invest this money so that next year, you can share your testimonies. I will send a team round to monitor what you have done with this financial assistance,” stated Mayor Dighambong. He further reinforced their belonging within the community, adding, “You should know that you are part and parcel of this municipality, as we are striving for a truly inclusive society.”
The Chief of Social Center Wum, Akah Emmanuel Akande, Representing the Divisional Delegate of Social Affairs Menchum, also called on PWDs to judiciously use the assistance granted to them.
The SDO for Menchum, Nkwah Boris, lauded the council’s commendable initiative, highlighting its significance for the well-being of the beneficiaries. Echoing the Mayor’s call, he also enjoined the Pwds to judiciously use the grants to improve their livelihoods and contribute positively to the growth of community.
Chuo Jacob Akwo, President CUAPWDs Wum.
Beneficiaries present at the event expressed profound gratitude to the Wum Council and its leadership for the timely and much-needed support. They conveyed their appreciation for the recognition and assistance, through the Sub divisional President of the Coordination Unit of Association of Persons with Disability, CUAPWD Wum, Chuo Jacob Akwo. The president in his words of thanks also said the financial assistance would significantly contribute to their daily well-being and empowerment.
This initiative by the Wum Council reinforces its dedication to ensuring that all residents, including those with disabilities, are fully integrated and supported within the community, setting a positive precedent for comprehensive inclusivity in the municipality.