15/10/2025
Statement by the Federation of Organizations of Disabled People in Zimbabwe (FODPZ) on the Commemoration of White Cane Day
15 October 2025
The Federation of Organizations of Disabled People in Zimbabwe (FODPZ) joins the global community in commemorating White Cane Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the achievements, independence, and dignity of persons with visual impairments.
The white cane is more than a mobility tool. It is a symbol of safety, freedom, and the right to move independently in society. Yet, many persons with visual impairments in Zimbabwe continue to face risks and barriers that undermine this right. These challenges include:
• Accidents on the roads due to motorists who are unaware of the rights of white cane users.
• Inaccessible pavements, with dug holes, uncovered drains, and vending stalls that block free movement.
• Lack of inclusion of disability awareness and white cane recognition in the driving school syllabus.
The International White Cane Day reminds us of the shared responsibility we all carry in ensuring that persons with visual impairments live, move, and thrive in safe environments.
FODPZ calls upon:
1. Policymakers to integrate the significance of White canes in the highway Code and other road traffic safety regulations
2. Motorists and transport operators to respect the white cane and prioritize the safety of visually impaired pedestrians.
3. Driving schools and authorities to integrate disability awareness, including the rights of white cane users, into the training curriculum.
4. City authorities and planners to make pavements, roads, and public spaces safe, accessible, and inclusive for all citizens.
5. Vendors, shop owners and businesses to ensure pavements and entrances remain free from obstruction and safe for navigation by all pedestrians.
6. The public at large to recognize and support the independence and safety of persons with visual impairments.
Today, we engage the community, we reaffirm that accessibility, independence and safety are not privileges but rights. An inclusive environment is one where every person, regardless of disability, can move with dignity and confidence.
FODPZ remains committed to working with government, local authorities, civil society, and development partners to achieve a Zimbabwe where no one is left behind.
Together, let us create safe pathways, safer roads, and inclusive cities.
Issued by:
Federation of Organizations of Disabled People in Zimbabwe (FODPZ)
Pathways!
Drivers!
Cane Awareness for Accessible and Inclusive environment!
!