Despite the current context of the COVID 19 pandemic, on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, the Togolese Association of the Blind (ATA) with the support of the ADP Project (African Disability Protocol) celebrated the 2021 International White Cane Day under the theme chosen by Togo was: “the white cane and its carrier, what a look during and after COVID19“. This theme was debated throughout October on radio and television channels.
The glamorous afternoon event was opened by welcome remarks from the President of ATA and followed by the Vice-President of the FETAPH who set the ball rolling.
The climax of the celebration was marked by a conference-debate under the theme: “The African protocol on disability: a regional opportunity for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities”. Several well know individuals participated in this conference: the members of the Monitoring Committee of the ADP Project, the sister Associations of the ATA, the representatives of the FETAPH (Togolese Federation of Associations of Persons with Disabilities), the representatives of the international organizations intervening in the field of disability and media people. The panel discussion was moderated by Mr. MADOU Yaovi, who is visually impaired and has a doctorate in Public Law. Dr. MADOU Yaovi is also an associate assistant to the Public Universities of Togo.
Subsequently, Dr. BADAKU Maurice who holds a doctorate degree in education science took to the floor to raise public awareness on the use of the white cane. Dr. BADAKU Maurice is also a special education teacher and trainer of trainers in inclusive education / visual impairment and braille. It was also during this occasion that the ADP project was presented to the public for the first time after its successful launch in Togo by the project country coordinator.
At last, the highly anticipated moment came to pass when Dr. MADOU, the speaker of the day began his presentation with the definition of terms. He then highlighted the importance of this innovative protocol by explaining each article in simple French. He concluded by calling upon decision-makers at all levels to contribute towards the ratification of this continental legal instrument and to take measures for its effective implementation , keeping in mind that, each individual is a potential handicapped person.
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