Advocacy for Ghana’s Government to Fund Tech Solutions for the Visually Impaired

On International White Cane Day, celebrated yesterday, Ghana emphasized the urgent need for government investment in technological devices that assist visually impaired individuals in achieving their full potential. Jeremiah Badu Shayar, the Country Programme Coordinator of the Holistic Development Programme for Visually Impaired Children (HODVIC), highlighted the persistent challenges regarding the cost and accessibility of assistive devices for the visually impaired community in Ghana. He pointed out that these barriers significantly hinder the ability of visually impaired persons to lead meaningful lives and participate fully in society.

Shayar stressed the importance of making these devices affordable and accessible, particularly in educational contexts. He noted that improving access to assistive technologies would enhance the learning experience for visually impaired students, thereby boosting their academic and professional prospects. Citing an example from Ethiopia, he mentioned the use of simple MP3 players that contain all necessary textbooks for students from grades one to six. This technology allows blind students to listen to their subjects and learn progressively—a stark contrast to the situation in Ghana, where such resources are lacking.

The celebration, themed "The white cane, a symbol for access for total inclusion and celebrating abilities," received support from several organizations, including SIC, Opportunity International Savings and Loans, Goil Ghana Limited, VFS Ghana Limited, Ghana National Gas Company Limited, and Gokals-Laborex Limited. These partnerships underscore the collective effort needed to address the needs of the visually impaired community.

Dr. Peter Obeng-Asamoa, Executive Director of the Ghana Blind Union (GBU), spoke about the various obstacles faced by visually impaired individuals, emphasizing that barriers go beyond physical challenges to include negative social attitudes, ignorance, and harmful cultural practices. He called for practical measures to help visually impaired persons navigate their environments more freely and with greater confidence. Dr. Obeng-Asamoa highlighted the necessity of eradicating the stigma associated with visual impairment within communities and urged donations to organizations that provide training and resources for visually impaired individuals.

He also encouraged visually impaired persons to utilize the white cane, which he referred to as their "second eye," to aid their mobility and independence.

Madam Beatrice Akua Mahmood, a Programmes Officer at Sightsavers International, echoed the call for government action, advocating for the establishment of an assistive device center. This center would provide essential resources, including white canes, to all blind and partially sighted individuals, regardless of their location. Mahmood emphasized that white canes should be offered to those who cannot afford them or made available at subsidized prices to ensure affordability for all visually impaired persons.

The commemoration of International White Cane Day in Ghana highlighted the urgent need to address the challenges faced by the visually impaired community. It served as an important platform for advocating investments in assistive technologies, which are essential for improving the quality of life for visually impaired individuals and enhancing their opportunities for inclusion in society. Through discussions led by key stakeholders, the event underscored the significance of making assistive devices accessible and affordable, thereby empowering visually impaired persons to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.