Defying the odds: Rwanda Union of the Blind Shines Light on Inclusivity During Bi-Monthly Car Free Day

By Ange de la Victoire DUSABEMUNGU

Kigali, Rwanda — In a remarkable display of solidarity and advocacy, members of the Rwanda Union of the Blind participated in Sunday, November 24, 2024 Bi-monthly Car Free Day, supported by the City of Kigali and MTN Rwanda.

The initiative aimed to highlight the importance of the White Cane for persons with visual impairments while promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities in sports activities.

Dr. Betty Mukarwego, President of the Rwanda Union of the Blind, emphasized the significance of this participation, stating, “We felt that we need to show that persons with visual impairment can also do sports with others. We wanted to advocate and to make sure that people who are here with us are seeing us and they are understanding our needs in sports.”

The event not only celebrated physical activity but also underscored the challenges faced by visually impaired persons.

Dr. Mukarwego added, “The challenges that affected us who are blind is because we needed people to guide us to come to this place. When we reach here, we need a person who is demonstrating to talk so that we can be able to follow the activities.”

“Sports is very important for us who are blind because most of the time we find that we are all alone,” Dr. Mukarwego articulated.

 “When we come here, we shake our bodies, we exercise our bodies. Our muscles, our bodies also need exercise like this to reduce weight and illnesses.” She said.

 Mugisha Jacques, Vice President of the Rwanda Union of the Blind, echoed this sentiment.

“Engaging in sports can be beneficial in two ways. Firstly, sports are an integral part of our lives. Secondly, by participating in sports, we demonstrate that our white cane is not a limitation but a tool for navigating through various activities.”

He further elaborated, “We want to emphasize that the white cane symbolizes our independence, rights, and capabilities, enabling us to access education, employment, and all aspects of daily life with ease.”

Richard Nyirishema, Rwanda’s Minister of Sport, commended the event’s inclusivity.

“This event was unique because it was inclusive of people with disabilities. The participation of persons with visual impairments was a positive aspect of the sport, and we discussed ways to enhance the event to increase their participation.”

The Car Free Day initiative serves as a platform to promote pedestrian safety. With the participation of the persons with the blindness, it raises awareness for those who rely on White Canes for navigation.

Minister Nyirishema noted, “It is crucial to support persons who use White Canes by giving them space to move freely and assisting them when needed.”

Minister Richard Nyirishema speaking to the Rwanda Union of the Blind Team shortly after sports activities

“The presence of visually impaired persons at the event and their willingness to share their experiences marked a significant step toward fostering inclusivity in sports.” Minister Nyirishema said.

Throughout Kigali City, persons with visual impairments actively participate in this sport at various locations such as Kigali Heights, Kigali Pelé Stadium, IPRC Kicukiro, and the Gisozi site.

As the community continues to embrace diversity and create opportunities for all, events like these shine a light on the importance of understanding and supporting persons with disabilities.