The City of Johannesburg’s Department of Social Development hosted a white cane awareness campaign at the Poortjie Multipurpose Centre in Region G on 29 November 2024.
The event kicked off with a 1km awareness walk from the Poortjie Clinic to the centre.
The aim of the campaign was to highlight the crucial role of the white cane for blind and partially sighted people as a symbol of mobility and independence. The campaign also aimed to raise awareness of the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals and to encourage community members to offer support where possible.
The white cane is a universal symbol of hope, independence, and resilience, empowering blind and partially sighted people to navigate the world with confidence. While commonly referred to as the white cane, these aids come in a variety of colours and materials. They also feature different tips to help users navigate various surfaces and environments.
“Right now, people with disabilities are marginalised and their rights are violated. People with disabilities and their families are economically more vulnerable due to exclusion and discrimination in the labour market,” said MMC for Health and Social Development, Cllr Ennie Makhafola.
These types of campaigns bring the challenges faced by people with disabilities to the forefront. The City of Johannesburg, in collaboration with non-governmental organisations, assists disabled people in accessing essential mobility aids such as white canes, crutches, and wheelchairs.
At the event, community members were also educated about HIV and its modes of transmission. Individuals living with the virus shared personal testimonies on living positively with HIV/Aids.
A red and white candle was lit in memory of those who have passed away from HIV/Aids. Community members also pledged to end discrimination against disabled people and people living with HIV/Aids.
Written by Ayanda Radebe
02/12/2024
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