Allow me to introduce you to Samuel Niyomugabo, a true trailblazer and advocate who believes that the source of the Nile lies in Rwanda. This intriguing perspective emerged during a spirited debate with our Burundian friend, Fabrice, who firmly asserted that the Nile originated in Burundi. Samuel’s journey as a young Rwandan leader, whom I had the privilege of getting to know during our time in Young African Leaders Initiative, was marked by enlightening conversations and invaluable lessons.
Samuel Niyomugabo is a 28 year old charismatic advocate who is determined to break all barriers faced by people with disabilities. His very name, Niyomugabo, signifies the greatness of God. His inspiring story unfolds against the backdrop of adversity, as he lost his eyesight at the tender age of 3 or 4, as recounted by his parents.
While working as a journalist, Samuel decided to actively join the Disability movement. He now serves as an assistive technology assistant, facilitating and teaching visually impaired individuals to achieve independence. I was personally unfamiliar with the concept of assistive technology until Samuel enlightened me. We would often engage in discussions about it, long after class and during meals.
Assistive technology (AT) encompasses various devices and systems that aid people with disabilities in performing tasks they would otherwise struggle with. For individuals with visual impairments, common types of AT include screen readers, software programs that convert text on a computer screen into speech or braille, thus enabling access to computers and other electronic devices.
“The introduction of assistive technology has played a critical role in helping visually impaired individuals live independent and productive lives. By facilitating access to information and communication, AT empowers people with disabilities to actively participate in society”, says Samuel.
Technological advancements have further enhanced accessibility, granting visually impaired individuals’ tools such as screen readers, narrators, talk-back features on phones, and voice-overs on iPhones.
Aside from his advocacy work and proficiency in assistive technology, Samuel is a multilingual talent, fluent in French, English, Kiswahili, and Kinyarwanda. I vividly recall his astonishment when discovering that I spoke Kiswahili as I was his first South Sudanese friend. I played one of John Frog’s popular songs, “Guondo Sakit,” and translated it for Samuel’s amusement and enjoyment.
Samuel’s kind-hearted nature and friendliness were apparent to all who encountered him. I fondly recall a light-hearted conversation where we compared our appearances. Samuel humorously believed that he was the darkest and tallest individual among us, but he quickly realized he was the tallest Rwandan I had ever met. He often spoke highly of his sister, who provides him with unwavering love and support, and expressed his deep patriotism for Rwanda. Through his efforts, Samuel is making a tangible impact in his community and changing lives.
During our time together, we joked about how quickly one could travel within Rwanda, with Samuel mentioning that it takes just two hours to reach his village. It was a lighthearted exchange that emphasized the compact size of his beloved country.