The journey from home: Experiences of persons with disabilities of the urban transport system in Accra Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

Accessible transport services facilitate the engagement of persons with disabilities in various life-enhancing opportunities for alleviating poverty and reducing inequalities. Research on transport services in Accra has primarily reflected the travel concerns of the general population, neglecting the travel patterns, behaviours, and experiences of vulnerable and marginalised minority groups, such as persons with disabilities. The study involved 230 individuals with disabilities. An auditing scheme and a questionnaire were utilised, using smartphones and tablets to collect the relevant data. The quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 26 to generate descriptive statistics and the Relative Importance Index (RII), highlighting key challenges faced by persons with disabilities. The qualitative data were coded using MAXQDA software and included as anonymous quotations to complement the quantitative results. The data revealed that trips for religious activities, healthcare, and social engagements were the predominant travel patterns of persons with disabilities. Non-inclusive walking environments (such as poor sidewalks) and inadequate vehicular conditions (including high-floor vehicles and the absence of assistive aids) present significant challenges for persons with disabilities. Consequently, the study recommends a disability outreach programme to improve awareness and compliance with disability policies and guidelines in both the transport and physical environments.