In Huye District’s Tumba Sector, Rwanda joined the rest of the world on Friday, November 7, 2025, to celebrate International White Cane Day at the national level, where more than 300 visually impaired people were provided with white canes, an essential tool that helps them navigate daily life independently.
The event brought together visually impaired individuals from across the country, government officials, and various partners who came to support and contribute white canes under the theme: “Seeing Beyond the Eyes.”
Those who received the canes expressed great joy, saying that the white cane is a lifeline that gives them the ability to move and carry out different activities without relying on others.
Hakizimana Gaspard, one of the beneficiaries, said, “The white cane we received is very important support for us. It will help us in our everyday lives because it allows us to do everything without needing any other assistance.”
This was echoed by another beneficiary, Musabimana Venancia, who stated that the cane empowers them just like anyone else: “When we have it, we feel more confident, capable, and aware, just like other people.”
Despite the excitement, many visually impaired individuals raised concerns about affordability, explaining that the canes are still too expensive for those with limited means, costing between $45 and $50 (over 50,000 Rwandan francs), which makes them inaccessible to many who need them.
Dr. Beth Mukarwego, the President of the Rwanda Union of the Blind (RUB), emphasized the importance of policies and practical measures that ensure equal access to white canes.
“The white cane gives hope and independence to its users, but we also need systems that make it easily accessible for everyone who requires it,” she said. “We must do everything possible to make it affordable and available to every visually impaired person in Rwanda.”
Dr. Mukarwego further urged employers and institutions to give equal opportunities to people with disabilities, noting that many have been unfairly denied chances despite being capable.
Huye District Mayor, Ange Sebutege, assured continued collaboration with partners to ensure white canes are distributed throughout all districts in Rwanda, while promoting disability-friendly services in schools, hospitals, and other essential settings.
“We are working closely with partners so that every person with visual impairment across the country can access a white cane, despite the high cost,” he said. “We will continue to improve inclusive services in healthcare facilities, schools, government offices, and everywhere else necessary.”
