Rwandan Union of the Blind Calls for Action to Improve Accessibility Ahead of White Cane Day

By The Inspirer.

Kigali, Rwanda – The Rwandan Union of the Blind (RUB) has called on government institutions, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations to take urgent steps to improve accessibility and end stigma against persons with visual impairments.

The appeal comes ahead of the national celebration of World White Cane Day, which will take place on November 7, 2025, in Huye District, Southern Province. The global event is officially marked every year on October 15 under the theme “Vision Beyond Sight: Celebrating Independence, Resilience, and Recognizing Achievements of the Blind.”

RUB leaders say the white cane represents more than a mobility aid—it symbolizes dignity, independence, and resilience. Mugisha Jacques, Executive Director of the Rwandan Union of the Blind, said promoting the white cane’s availability and value is a right and not an act of pity.

He noted that living well without sight requires using both the brain and the heart, stressing that the white cane remains central to self-education and dignity.

“The white cane continues to be a center of self-education, dignity, and the effective use of the brain,” Mugisha said.

Santosh Kumar Rungta, President of the World Federation of the Blind, said the global celebration recognizes the strength and uniqueness of blind people. He reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to building a world that respects and values diversity.

Despite efforts to promote inclusion, many blind people in Rwanda still face serious barriers to independence. RUB says uncovered water channels, holes in pedestrian walkways, and other unsafe infrastructure make it difficult for people with visual impairments to move safely. The organization also points to widespread stigma, which often comes from family members, service providers, and even administrative bodies.

RUB emphasized that people with visual impairments are part of the larger human family and deserve respect and equal opportunities. The organization urged the government and its partners to cover open water channels, support the development of assistive technologies, and ensure that public and private websites are accessible to users of assistive devices.

It also called for stronger support to the RUB Training Centre, the only facility in the country that trains the blind in using white canes, and for continued rehabilitation programs to help restore the lives of people with visual impairments.

This year’s White Cane Day celebrations in Huye District will include a week of activities such as community sensitization, media engagement, and discussions with local institutions. One of the key activities will be distributing white canes to at least 100 blind people.

World White Cane Day is observed globally to recognize the independence and achievements of blind persons. In Rwanda, the Rwandan Union of the Blind continues to advocate for an inclusive society where every person, regardless of disability, can live with dignity and independence.