In the streets of Bamenda like elsewhere in Cameroon, there exists a quieter struggle for those whose mobility relies not on sight, but on touch and intuition. For the visually impaired, the white cane is much more than a walking aid. It is a symbol of independence, safety, and tenacity: a lifeline to navigate a world built for the sighted. As October unfolds, marking Blind Awareness Month, Hope Social Union for the Visually Impaired (HSUVI) in Bamenda seeks to draw attention to the essential role the white cane plays in ensuring dignity and mobility for the blind.
While White Cane Safety Day is globally celebrated on 15 October, HSUVI has scheduled its local commemoration for Thursday, 17 October 2024, at their Mile 4 Nkwen head office. This year’s event will serve as a crucial platform to raise awareness not only about the white cane itself but also about the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals who rely on it daily to navigate the unpredictable terrain of roads and public spaces.
More than just a cane
To those unfamiliar with its importance, the white cane may appear to be a simple tool. However, to the visually impaired, it is a powerful extension of their bodies, offering the means to detect obstacles, maintain orientation, and move through unfamiliar environments with confidence.
“The white cane is to the blind what sight is to the sighted.” Peter Tonain Ngong, President of HSUVI, explains to the Hilltopvoices Newspaper,
This analogy captures the relationship between the visually impaired and their canes. It is not merely a mobility device; it is their guide to independence. Without it, many would find themselves confined to dependence, unable to move freely or live autonomously. The white cane empowers users to take control of their own lives, ensuring that they are not bound by the limitations of their visual impairments.
A call to action: road safety and public awareness
Despite its critical role, the white cane is often misunderstood by society. Myths and ignorance continue to surround its use, and, more alarmingly, many road users are unaware of how to interact with visually impaired individuals who rely on it. As a result, the visually impaired are frequently placed in dangerous situations, with accidents on the rise.
HSUVI is determined to change this narrative.
“This year, we are placing a strong emphasis on raising public awareness about the white cane and its importance. We urge drivers, motorcyclists, law enforcement officers, and the general public to recognise the rights and safety needs of white cane users.” Ngong Peter states
The association is calling on all road users to show respect and caution when encountering a person with a white cane. By being more mindful of their presence on the road and offering assistance when necessary, accidents involving the visually impaired can be reduced. HSUVI believes that a society that truly understands the significance of the white cane will not only protect visually impaired individuals but also promote greater inclusion.
Commemorating White Cane Safety Day 2024
The upcoming commemoration on 17 October will be more than a celebration. For HSUVI, it will be a day of education, inclusion, and action. HSUVI will host a range of activities at their Mile 4 Nkwen office, with a special focus on orientation and mobility training. This training, a cornerstone of the organisation’s work, aims to equip visually impaired individuals with the skills and confidence to navigate independently.
The event is open to the public, and HSUVI is extending a special invitation to those without visual impairments to attend. By participating, the sighted community can gain valuable insight into the daily challenges faced by the visually impaired and learn how to contribute to creating a more inclusive society.
One of the event’s key highlights will be a call for donations of white canes. HSUVI is appealing to well-meaning individuals, organisations, and local businesses to donate canes to those in need.
“By donating a white cane, you are not just giving someone a tool, you are giving them the gift of independence,” Ngong says.
This initiative reflects HSUVI’s commitment to ensuring that no visually impaired person is left behind due to a lack of resources.
Breaking down barriers
October is traditionally a month dedicated to raising awareness about the visually impaired, and this year is no different. HSUVI hopes that their efforts will lead to greater understanding of the challenges faced by the blind and visually impaired, not just in Bamenda but across the North West Region and beyond.
By highlighting the importance of the white cane and promoting its safe use, HSUVI aims to dismantle the barriers that continue to limit the freedom of those with visual impairments. Whether it is the societal myths that diminish their independence or the physical dangers they face on the road, HSUVI is committed to advocating for the visually impaired to be recognised, respected, and supported.
A community effort
HSUVI’s work is a reminder that creating an inclusive society is a collective responsibility. The organisation calls on everyone from government officials and transport workers to everyday citizens to take part in this effort. Whether by offering a helping hand, donating a white cane, or simply becoming more informed about the needs of the visually impaired, every action counts.
As White Cane Safety Day approaches, HSUVI Bamenda invites the community to join in their mission to ensure that the visually impaired can navigate their surroundings with the same confidence and freedom as their sighted counterparts. By promoting the use of the white cane and advocating for the rights of visually impaired individuals, HSUVI is paving the way for a future where independence is not a privilege, but a right for all.
For those wishing to contribute, HSUVI’s Mile 4 Nkwen office will be open throughout the week for donations and participation in their activities. It is a small yet powerful way to support the visually impaired, ensuring that they can walk through life with the dignity and safety they deserve.
By Bakah Derick
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77