The Rwanda Union of the Blind (RUB) has called on the public and vehicle drivers to better understand the importance of the white cane and to respect it as a tool that helps blind people live an independent and dignified life.
In a press conference held on Friday, October 31, 2025, the Executive Director of RUB, Mugisha Jacques, said that some people still do not understand the value of the white cane, with some mishandling or hitting it, yet it is what helps blind people know where they are and where they are going.
Mugisha said that “the white cane is the eye of the blind,” and disturbing it is like touching their eye. He explained that in Rwandan culture, pointing a finger in someone’s eye is taboo, therefore the white cane should also be treated as something of great value in the lives of blind people.
He said: “When someone interferes with the white cane, it means preventing us from seeing the way. It is like poking us in the eye. We ask everyone to respect the white cane as they respect their own eye.”
RUB says that using the white cane is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of ability, independence, and determination to live well. Mugisha added that blind people use “the eyes of the heart and the strength of the mind,” and many of them participate in various development activities, showing that they should not be mistaken for being less capable.
Every year on October 15, the International White Cane Day is celebrated. In Rwanda, this year it will take place on November 7, 2025, in Huye District, Southern Province, under the theme “We see beyond sight.”
The day will also serve as an opportunity to remind the public that the white cane is not only a mobility aid but also a symbol of rights, dignity, and a full life for blind people.
Since 1995, RUB has established 64 branches in all districts of the country and has more than 1,900 members. The organization says celebrating this day has helped raise awareness and advocacy that enabled many blind people to receive white canes. So far, 1,485 canes have been distributed, though many blind people still do not have them.
The 2022 national census showed that there are over 180,000 people with visual impairment in Rwanda, while provisional data from the Disability Information Management System put the number at around 107,000.
RUB calls on all institutions to continue supporting programs that help blind people access white canes and to promote awareness based on respect, equality, and inclusion in everyday life.
