Katima Mulilo
Zambezi Regional Governor Lawrence Sampofu says that government is committed to bettering the lives of the visually impaired.
As testimony, he cited the recent increase in the disability grant and the creation of a disability affairs directorate in the office of the vice-president. These sentiments were expressed by Sampofu in a speech read on his behalf by his special advisor, Ignatius Nkunga, during the commemoration of International White Cane Day in Katima Mulilo, where partially sighted and people affected by blindness gathered.
Commemorations for this day fall on October 15 each year and recognise the achievements and challenges of the persons that are blind and partially sighted. Sampofu further urged the authorities to consider the visually impaired in road safety measures, adding that many countries have recognised the importance of putting up specially designed road signs.
“It is essential for everyone to know the importance of the white cane. The white cane is an instrument used by persons with visual impairments to detect any objects in their way and to ensure safety. We would encourage the traffic department to display white cane signs to increase awareness of the need to be sensitive to the safety of persons with visual impairments,” implored Sampofu.
“The government is working hard to improve the living standard of persons with disabilities by providing them with the necessary support. These include the recent increase in the amount of the disability grant to N$1 000 per month and the establishment of the disability affairs directorate in the Office of the Vice President,” said Sampofu.
Swapo secretary general and patron of the Namibian federation of the visually impaired, Nangolo Mbumba, whose speech was also read on his behalf by Nkunga, encouraged persons with visual impairments not to give up, noting that despite their predicament, many high profile figures with the same challenges have achieved great success in the world.
“Joseph Pulitzer was one of the best journalists, with a journalism prize named on his behalf. Andrea Bocelli is one of the world’s most famous opera singers. Louis Braille is the inventor of the modern braille system. Ray Charles and Steve Wonder are multiple music award winners. Our very own Ananias Shikongo recently won three gold medals at the All Africa Games. These are a few of many that are visually impaired, or blind, but had the true vision in their hearts and souls. They helped shape the world as it is today,” Mbumba noted.