In 2022, Kofi Kyei, a shoemaker from Breman Bremin in Central Ghana, received a life-changing contribution that opened new doors for him. As a person with a hearing disability, Kofi faced numerous challenges, but this support sparked a transformation that has revolutionised his enterprise and life, demonstrating the power of disability inclusion.
Two years earlier, Kofi participated in the first phase of a vocational training programme by RYTHM Foundation and the Cape Coast-based NGO ANOPA Project. This joint initiative empowers individuals with disabilities through education, skill development and essential tools.
Thanks to the shoe-filing machine he received through this project, Kofi has tripled his production, expanded his customer base, and boosted his sales.
This single piece of equipment has become the cornerstone of his entrepreneurial transformation.
“I am very happy to have been chosen as one of the beneficiaries of this tool,” Kofi shares during a recent visit to his workshop. “The shoe-filing machine has not only improved my work but has also enabled me to produce more shoes each day, allowing me to support my family better.”
The 37-year-old is now a well-regarded cobbler in the Asikuma Odoben Brakwa district and registered with the District Assembly, the local authority overseeing the area’s administration and development.
Disability Inclusion in Action
Kofi’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of targeted support and empowerment. His accomplishments illustrate how meaningful interventions can uplift individuals and entire communities.
Santhi Periasamy, the Head of RYTHM Foundation, remarks, “Kofi’s achievements highlight the profound impact that strategic support can have on someone’s life. By providing the right tools and opportunities, we can help individuals like Kofi unlock their full potential and inspire others around them.”
Kofi is not without his share of challenges, however. His workshop is too cramped to support the demands of his growing trade. Over the past year, his shop has also been broken into three times, resulting in the theft of his finished products.
While RYTHM explores solutions to these issues with ANOPA, Kofi remains optimistic. “Despite the challenges, I am committed to working hard to continue improving my business.”
Kofi’s story highlights the transformative power of providing meaningful support to individuals with disabilities, demonstrating how the Foundation and our partners work together to foster a more inclusive environment for everybody.
