Nkurenkuru is preparing to host White Cane Safety Day on 15 October, with the Namibia Federation of the Visually Impaired raising awareness about road safety, equal rights and the inclusion of persons with disabilities.

The Namibia Federation of the Visually Impaired has launched an awareness campaign across the Kavango West Region ahead of this year's commemoration in Nkurenkuru.

The federation's Country Director, Moses Nghipandulwa, stated that people do not understand the purpose of the white cane, putting the safety of people with visual impairments at risk when road users fail to give them the right of way.

“It is our responsibility as organisations to educate and raise public awareness so that people understand the white cane.”

Nghipandulwa said the gathering is open to everyone, including persons with different disabilities and members of the public, to promote understanding of the challenges and achievements of people with disabilities.

“The event will be inclusive, and we are inviting persons with all types of disabilities to attend. We also welcome members of the public without disabilities to witness the event and learn about the challenges and achievements of persons with disabilities. This will help promote greater understanding of issues affecting persons with disabilities, including those with visual impairments.”

He further emphasised that disability should not be viewed as an inability, saying people with disabilities deserve equal opportunities to participate in society and contribute to national development.

“Actually, disability does not mean inability. Don't look at a person with a disability and conclude that they are unable to do anything. People with disabilities are very much needed in society, and we believe they can also contribute to the growth of our country's economy.”

White Cane Safety Day highlights the white cane as a symbol of independence, mobility, and the rights of people with visual impairments.