Grand Theft Cane: The Day I Almost Weaponized My Mobility Aid

So, there I was, fresh off a 16-hour flight, wandering around the dazzling expanse of Hamad International Airport in Doha. My backside was numb, my brain was mush, and my guide dog was off gallivanting at home, leaving me to rely on my trusty cane and a fancy AI app for visual descriptions. It was … Read more

Trip.com: Where Your Travel Dreams Go to Die (Unless You’re Not Blind)

Well, folks, I’ve done it again. I’ve managed to turn the simple act of booking a flight into an epic odyssey of frustration and disappointment. This time, the villain of the story is none other than trip.com, a website that seems to be specifically designed to torment blind travelers like myself.   You see, I … Read more

My Guide Dog, Brooke, and I Deserve Better – A Call for Change in Ride-Hailing Services

A picture of Brooke, my guide dog.

Hello, friends and supporters. My name is Hanif Kruger, and I am the manager at the Assistive Technology Centre at the South African National Council for the Blind. I’m proud to contribute to the Africa Conference/Career Expo, focusing on Disability, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.   However, today I need to share a recent experience that … Read more

Living Independently as a blind person

Introduction Living independently as a blind person can be a challenging but fulfilling journey. It requires determination, courage, and a willingness to adapt to new ways of doing things. However, with the right tools, resources, and support, blind individuals can overcome obstacles and achieve a high level of independence.   In this presentation, we will … Read more

Four political parties trying to block South Africa’s copyright progress

On 1 September 2022, the Copyright Amendment Bill was passed by the National Assembly with 163 votes for and 45 votes against the Bill. There were no abstentions. The Bill will now go to the National Council of Provinces. It is a progressive Bill that will afford South Africans rights similar to those enjoyed by people in many countries … Read more