As the sky hung low with clouds, individuals with visual impairments gathered on modest benches, attentively listening to messages of hope, thoughtfully translated into Hausa for their understanding. The residents of the Okobaba Destitute Home have likely been touched by these uplifting messages many times before. Yet, what they may not have frequently encountered is the profound significance of the white mobility canes bestowed upon them by The Resource Center for the Blind, a non-profit organization on a compassionate mission to the destitute home located in Ebute Metta, Lagos. The occasion? World Sight Day and White Cane Safety Day, both celebrated every October.
“We opted to celebrate this year’s event here with the people we believe need our assistance the most,” shared Executive Director Temitayo Ayinla Omotola during an interview with The Guardian.
In this year’s heartwarming visit, The Resource Center for the Blind distributed essential palliatives, guide canes, and offered complimentary health checkups in collaboration with Jubily Health Concern Initiative, an NGO dedicated to healthcare for individuals with visual impairments. Mrs. Obiageli Adewale, the Director of the NGO, expressed her commitment to this partnership, rooted in her belief in empowering blind and visually impaired individuals with the skills necessary for a brighter future – a concept considered a luxury by the residents of Okobaba Destitute Home.
The Guardian had the privilege of conversing with Adamu Jubril, the Sarki, or leader, of the blind occupants of the home. Mr. Jubril disclosed that the home sheltered over 150 blind residents who relied on daily donations and begging for their survival. He elaborated on the home’s struggles, including a daunting monthly electricity bill of N120,000 and persistent issues with waste disposal, resulting in extended periods without proper refuse collection. He also passionately appealed for assistance in educating their youth, highlighting the considerable expenses associated with educating pupils with visual impairments.
Education for visually impaired students can be a costly endeavour, but the Resource Center for the Blind is a pillar of support, helping to alleviate these financial burdens. The center offers instruction in standard academic subjects, vocational skills, Braille, computer literacy, and various essential life skills, all designed to pave the way for a brighter future for their students.
About the Celebrations:
World Sight Day, observed every second Thursday of October, is a global initiative aimed at increasing awareness of visual impairments and blindness. It emphasizes the significance of eye health and the importance of accessible, quality eye care. With more than 36 million blind individuals worldwide, this day underscores the need for prevention and treatment.
White Cane Day, celebrated on October 15th, spotlights the independence and mobility of blind and visually impaired individuals, symbolized by the white cane. It serves as a poignant reminder of the unique challenges they encounter and the paramount importance of inclusivity and accessibility in education and employment. Opportunities in these spheres remain limited, making inclusive education practices crucial for the future.
The Executive Director of the Resource Center for the Blind called upon the government and compassionate individuals to contribute financially and through various services, collectively working to create a more livable and inclusive environment for blind and visually impaired individuals. She concluded her message with a poignant quote from Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little, but together we can do so much!”
