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The Rwandan Union of the Blind (RUB) is issuing an urgent call to action, demanding immediate and concrete measures from government agencies, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations to improve accessibility and combat the persistent challenges faced by persons with visual impairments.
This strong appeal precedes the local observance of World White Cane Day on November 7, 2025, which will be celebrated in the Southern Province, specifically in Huye District. The global celebration is typically held annually on October 15th.
The theme for the 2025 commemoration is “Vision Beyond Sight: Celebrating Independence, Resilience, and Recognizing Achievements of the Blind.”
The White Cane: Symbol of Rights, Not Pity
The Rwanda Union of the Blind reminds us that the white cane is celebrated globally as more than just a tool for mobility and self-direction; it is a powerful symbol of resilience, determination, dignity, and the right of blind people to live a full life. It also serves to identify the user as blind.
MUGISHA Jacques, Executive Director of the Rwandan Union of the Blind (RUB), stressed that “promoting the white cane’s easy availability and having the right value is a right for the visually impaired, and not pity or mercy.”
He noted that to live well without sight, individuals are required to use their brains and hearts, emphasizing that true achievement requires striving despite obstacles.
“The white cane continues to be a center of self-education, dignity, and the effective use of the brain.” He added.
Santosh Kumar Rungta, President of the World Federation of the Blind, affirmed, “On this White Cane Day, we celebrate and remember the strength and uniqueness of blind people. Here, we reaffirm our commitment to building a world that respects and values diversity”.
Barriers to Independence
Despite the white cane showcasing the true identity of people with visual impairments and playing a role in the fight for their rights, the RUB notes that blind individuals continue to face significant barriers.
Blind people across the country struggle to move freely due to a lack of infrastructure, particularly uncovered water channels or holes in pedestrian ways. This lack of support, coupled with the absence of a clear line of support and rehabilitation, severely affects personal and family development.
Furthermore, stigma is a major issue, caused not only by some family members, service providers, and individuals, but also by administrative bodies. The RUB maintains that people with visual impairments are part of the larger human family and are worthy of respect and opportunities like everyone else.
Immediate Call to Action
As the RUB celebrates the 17th anniversary of the white cane, it calls on government agencies, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations to utilize the political will of the good leadership of Rwanda and take the following necessary measures:
- Ensure that infrastructure, especially water pipes/channels, is covered.
- Continuously develop technology to support persons with disabilities, especially the blind.
- Improve and disseminate guidelines for the creation and maintenance of government, private, and non-governmental websites in a way that facilitates users of assistive technology to access information without barriers.
- Establish effective mechanisms to facilitate the availability of white canes.
- Strengthen the capacity of the only RUB-training center in the country to continue training the blind on the use of white canes.
- Continue to support activities to help rehabilitate and restore the lives of people with visual impairments.
The celebration in Huye District will be marked by a week of dedicated activities, including sensitization through the media, talks with various institutions, and community engagement. The core goal of this effort is to locate and provide a white cane to 100 blind individuals.
