The 15th of October is White Cane Safety Day, a day dedicated to recognising the independence and achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired. 

While not everyone who is visually impaired has access to a white cane, this is changing for some individuals in Kavango East Region who recently received one through a donation from the Ministry of Health and Social Services.

White canes cost about N$800 each and can sometimes only be found in Windhoek.

The visually impaired say what was once an unattainable luxury item has now turned into a tool they call their 'new eyes'.

The white cane allows the visually impaired to navigate their surroundings safely, detect obstacles, and maintain balance, revolutionising the lives of millions around the world. 

When the NBC News team visited the Sauyemwa Centre of the Visually Impaired in October last year, the majority of students did not have a white cane. Today, however, every single one owns the device. 

The Ministry of Health donated 52 white canes to both the students and some community members. 

The Chairperson of the North East Association of the Visually Impaired, Dominga Mema, spoke about how they feel left out since the country launched its upgraded banknote and coinage series. 

"If you examine the N$10 note, you will notice that the dot present on our previous currency is missing. Additionally, when comparing the new one dollar to the old 10-cent coin, there is no discernible difference between them."