By Lloydson G. Flomo
MONROVIA, Oct.16 (LINA)— The National Commission on Disabilities (NCD) has called on motorists, government institutions, development partners, and the public to promote road safety, accessibility, and equal opportunities for persons who are blind or visually impaired.
The Commission made the call Thursday, October 15, 2026 as Liberia joined the international community in observing International White Cane Safety Day, an occasion dedicated to promoting the independence, mobility, dignity, and rights of persons with visual impairments.
In a statement marking the observance on October 15, 2026, the NCD described the white cane as more than a mobility aid, saying it symbolizes independence, confidence, and equal participation in society.
According to the Commission, the white cane enables persons who are blind or visually impaired to navigate their surroundings more safely and participate in education, employment, public life, and community development urging motorists to slow down, remain alert, and give pedestrians with visual impairments adequate time and space to cross roads safely.
It also encouraged pedestrians and other road users to respect the white cane as an important mobility tool and recognize that its users may require additional consideration when navigating public spaces as she further called on government agencies, private-sector institutions, and communities to challenge discrimination and promote equal opportunities for persons who are blind or visually impaired in schools, workplaces, and public institutions.
The Commission emphasized that disability should not prevent anyone from enjoying dignity, independence, opportunities, or full participation in society as building an inclusive Liberia requires collective action, accessible infrastructure, public awareness, and respect for the rights of persons with disabilities.
The NCD stressed the need for stakeholders to move beyond symbolic celebrations and take practical measures to ensure that persons who are blind or visually impaired can travel safely, access essential services, pursue their aspirations, and contribute to national development.
“As we mark International White Cane Day, let us remember that accessibility is a right, inclusion is a shared responsibility, and independence deserves our collective support,” the Commission stated.
The Commission concluded by urging Liberians to work toward a society where persons with disabilities are respected, empowered, and included in every aspect of national life.