The integration of blind and visually impaired people is a major issue in many countries. In France and Africa, several associations are mobilizing to support these individuals and offer them opportunities for social and professional inclusion. During a recent event organized in the Paris region, these associations came together to share their projects and inspire each other.
The French association Voir Ensemble, which collaborates with educational structures in French-speaking Africa, was at the initiative of this meeting. The objective was to present the different projects carried out in the participating countries and to encourage exchanges between the different actors.
Among the participants, Paul Tezanou, founder of the Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix Center for the Blind in Cameroon, shared his experience. Suffering from an illness which deprived him of his voice, he now communicates using an electronic device. He highlights the importance of inclusion, refusing to create ghettos for blind people. He emphasizes the need for autonomy rather than depending on alms.
Denis Guérin, for his part, works in a Braille printing company in Toulouse. Its commitment extends to supporting the center for blind young people in Ndjamena, Chad. It underlines the value of this place as a real family which allows young people to grow up safely in a suitable environment. Learning Braille is a considerable asset for their future autonomy.
During this event, many participants called for greater collaboration between African countries to improve the education of blind and visually impaired young people. They highlight the existence of associations in countries such as Niger, Burkina Faso, Senegal and Mali, and encourage the pooling of resources and knowledge. South-South relations between countries sharing similar cultures could be beneficial for all.
The speakers also highlighted the successes of blind and visually impaired students who have been supported and who have obtained diplomas or are even pursuing university studies. These successes demonstrate the importance of the support and commitment of associations in the inclusion of these individuals.
It is essential to continue efforts to support the integration of blind and visually impaired people, by promoting the exchange of experiences, collaborations between countries and by encouraging the education and autonomy of these individuals. Successful inclusion contributes to a more equitable society and opens up numerous opportunities for all.