The white cane, a symbol of autonomy for blind and partially sighted people, unfortunately remains an unaffordable luxury for many individuals in the Democratic Republic of Congo. On this World White Cane Day celebrated on October 15, the observation is overwhelming: this essential tool for the mobility and safety of people with visual impairments does not benefit from a monthly allowance, making its acquisition out of reach for many families.
Jacques Sambeya, coordinator of the ASBL Cri de Bartimée, highlights this worrying reality. According to him, the white cane, especially the high-quality Canadian model, remains an unaffordable luxury item for many people in remote regions of the DRC, particularly in the Kivu region. This observation calls into question the lack of financial support and government initiatives aimed at facilitating access to this essential tool for visually impaired people.
Indeed, the white cane goes far beyond a simple accessory. It represents a real guarantee of security and identification for people with visual impairments, allowing them to move around independently while signaling their condition to other users of public spaces. Let us imagine for a moment the freedom regained for these individuals if they had a monthly allowance or a disability bonus allowing them to acquire this essential tool for their daily lives.
It is undeniable that the implementation of concrete and adapted measures is necessary to guarantee equal opportunities and the inclusion of people with visual impairments in Congolese society. By supporting access to the white cane, the government and associations could contribute significantly to improving the quality of life of these individuals and their full participation in social and professional life.
On this day dedicated to raising awareness of the situation of people with visual impairments, it is essential to remember that the autonomy and dignity of each person must be absolute priorities. Providing equitable access to mobility and identification tools, such as the white cane, is a crucial first step towards a more inclusive and caring society for all its citizens.