Vice President Lucia Witbooi has called on employers and the private sector to create more inclusive economic opportunities for people with visual impairments, stressing that skills development must translate into employment and sustainable livelihoods.

Witbooi made the call during a visit to Nomad Wellness Academy in commemoration of White Cane Day.

Founded in 2016 by Mariane Akwenye, the academy provides skills training for persons with visual impairments, including a Remedial and Medical Massage Level 2 programme offered in partnership with the Namibia Training Authority.

More than 100 people with visual impairments have been trained over the years, with 40 learners enrolled in the 2026 cohort.

Witbooi said disability inclusion requires more than access to training, calling for practical measures that remove barriers to education, employment and entrepreneurship.

"Disability inclusion is a shared responsibility that requires coordinated action by the government, the private sector, development partners and society. The Office of the Vice President remains committed to advancing the rights, dignity and socio-economic empowerment of persons with disabilities through practical interventions and strategic partnerships."

One of the students, Beatha Akafingo, said she is grateful for the support and the inclusive learning environment, adding that people with visual impairments also have the potential to contribute meaningfully to Namibia's economy.

"I am also very grateful to be a part of this initiative because, first of all, it allows me to grow personally and professionally. It gives me options in the world not to be put in one box as a visually impaired woman. It also allows me to create means for myself. And also, it instills a sense of independence in us, where we don't always depend on our family members, on the grant, or on opportunities to come our way."

Fellow student Anatolia Shikola said the training had provided valuable learning opportunities and expressed hope that graduates would secure employment.

"The challenge that we face as visually impaired people is getting a job; it is difficult for us to get jobs. People don't know what we are capable of doing. Since we are done with this training, we are just sitting at home without any paper showing people that we can do the massage. We need to do an internship in order to get ready."

Witbooi stressed the need for coordinated efforts from government, businesses, development partners and society to ensure persons with disabilities participate fully in national development.