Implementation challenges of social protection policies in four districts in Ghana: The case of the District Assembly Common Fund meant for Persons with Disabilities

Abstract

This study explores Ghana’s implementation of a policy of two per cent of the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) meant for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in four districts. It employed in-depth interviews with PWDs and offi cers in the District Assembly. The study revealed that the District Assemblies did not fully comply with directives from the central government to implement the policy. There were inconsistencies in the implementation of the policy and many PWDs received amounts that were less than they required. Further, fi xed amounts were allocated to PWDs for diff erent purposes and even though the purposes for requests were not clear, payments were made. The study recommends the need to compile and maintain a database of all PWDs in all the Districts in Ghana, implementing uniform format for allocation of the DACF to PWDs, providing support in the form of inputs rather than cash, and mobilising PWDs into cooperatives. The District Assemblies might consider engaging independent evaluators to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the policy to give the much-needed direction to the policy.