Arua in high gear to commemorate world white cane day
This year’s theme is freedom, independence, and inclusivity.
By Moses Alinda
Arua: Arua district is set to celebrate belated World White Cane Day, which is annually celebrated to raise awareness about the courtesy rules of blindness and to promote accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities.
It also helps people learn how to interact with blind people in a respectful and inclusive way and how to support their independence and mobility.
Speaking to the media at her office, Ayikoru Jean Long, the community development officer in charge of PWDs and the elderly, says this year’s theme is to focus on the safety of the visually impaired, whereby in Arua district there are no zebra crossings, which can easily help them cross the busy roads.
Amayo Moses, the general secretary of the Arua district association of the blind, says that with community awareness for the visually impaired, there is a bit of improvement and displine towards persons with disabilities, especially the visually impaired.
He calls upon such sensitizations and celebrations to continue as they bring positive attitudes and mindsets to people.
Amaderu Alice, the secretary for women affected by disability in Arua district, says the continuous sensitization has brought in some changes, especially for road users when it comes to the visually impaired.
She, however, says there is a need to add more humps and ramps on some busy roads, especially within Arua district.
White canes were introduced in the 1930s as a way of assisting visually impaired pedestrians to travel independently.
They also helped motorists identify and yield to people using the white cane, and their use has been protected by law.
Arua district will hold its celebrations on October 25 at Arua district headquarters.
The day shall be graced by activities such as entertainment, riddles, and speeches, among others.
This year’s theme is freedom, independence, and inclusivity.
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