FCRPD under the dynamic leadership of it’s president Mr Samba Jaiteh Batch Samba joins the visually impaired community In celebrating the international white cane safety day.

As a foundation that is so passionate in serving persons with disabilities and envisioning a society where persons with disabilities are given all the support, rights and total inclusion in all aspects of life, it deems it incumbent upon itself to also celebrate with the visually impaired community and to also continue its advocacy and sensitization on the important of this day as done for other PWDs.

White Cane Safety Day, observed annually on October 15, is a global celebration of the achievements of individuals who are visually impaired and a reminder of the crucial role the white cane plays in their mobility and independence.

This day serves not only to raise awareness about the needs and rights of people who are blind or have low vision, but also to highlight the challenges they face in various parts of the world, including The Gambia.

Lets give a quick look at the history of this important day The white cane has long been a symbol of independence for people with visual impairments. However, it was not until the early 20th century that the cane began to be widely recognized as an essential tool for mobility. In 1930, Lions Clubs International adopted a movement to promote the white cane as a symbol for blind pedestrians. This movement eventually led to the creation of White Cane Safety Day in the United States in 1964, after then-President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a proclamation to recognize the day.Since then, White Cane Safety Day has been celebrated worldwide as a day to advocate for the rights of people with visual impairments. It emphasizes the need for their full integration into society and recognizes their contributions to various fields, despite the obstacles they encounter.

Significance of White Cane Safety Day

The white cane is not merely a tool for the visually impaired—it is a symbol of autonomy, dignity, and empowerment. White Cane Safety Day serves to remind society that people with visual impairments can lead full and independent lives, provided they have the right tools and support. It is also a call to action, urging communities, governments, and individuals to ensure the safety, accessibility, and inclusion of visually impaired persons in all aspects of life.

In addition to mobility, the white cane helps to educate the public about the presence and rights of visually impaired individuals. The use of the white cane ensures that others, including drivers and pedestrians, recognize and respect the needs of those using it, especially when navigating busy streets or public spaces.Challenges Faced by Persons with Visual Impairments in The Gambia.

In The Gambia, persons with visual impairments face significant challenges in their daily lives. While efforts have been made to support their integration into society, many obstacles remain.

1. Limited Access to Mobility Training and Assistive Devices: Although the white cane is a symbol of independence, access to the cane and other assistive devices is limited in The Gambia. Many visually impaired individuals lack access to basic mobility training, which teaches them how to use the white cane effectively. Without this training, the cane cannot fully serve its purpose, leaving people dependent on others for mobility.

2. Inadequate Infrastructure: The country’s infrastructure often poses barriers for visually impaired individuals. Roads and sidewalks in The Gambia are frequently not designed with accessibility in mind, making it difficult for visually impaired individuals to navigate safely. Poorly maintained or nonexistent pedestrian pathways, lack of tactile paving, and unsafe crossing points put visually impaired pedestrians at constant risk of accidents.

3. Discrimination and Social Exclusion: In The Gambia, societal attitudes towards persons with disabilities, including those who are visually impaired, can lead to marginalization and discrimination. People with visual impairments often experience social isolation due to negative perceptions or a lack of understanding about their abilities. This can result in fewer opportunities for education, employment, and social inclusion.

4. Limited Educational Opportunities: there is only one special school for visually impaired children in The Gambia, the overall access to education remains limited. Many schools are not equipped with the necessary materials or teaching aids, such as Braille textbooks or assistive technology, to support the learning needs of students with visual impairments. As a result, these students may struggle to receive the education they need to succeed.

5. Lack of Employment Opportunities: Employment opportunities for visually impaired individuals in The Gambia are also scarce. Many employers are hesitant to hire people with disabilities, believing that they may not be able to perform the required tasks. This misconception further contributes to high unemployment rates among the visually impaired population, leading to economic challenges and a reduced quality of life.

Conclusion: White Cane Safety Day is an essential reminder of the rights and achievements of visually impaired individuals, both in The Gambia and around the world. While progress has been made in promoting inclusion, many challenges remain. Through continued advocacy, improved accessibility, and the provision of essential tools like the white cane, we can work towards a society where visually impaired individuals can live independently and with dignity, free from barriers that hinder their full participation in society.As we observe White Cane Safety Day, let us remember that the journey toward inclusion and accessibility is ongoing. By taking action to address the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals, especially in countries like The Gambia, we can help build a future where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive.