Celebrating the Remarkable Legacy of Dr. Donatilla Kanimba as She Retires from the Rwanda Union of the Blind

Kigali, March 21, 2025—With deep gratitude and reverence, the Rwanda Union of the Blind (RUB) announces the retirement of Dr. Donatilla Kanimba, a pioneering force in the blind community. After 30 years of transformative leadership, the RUB hosted a heartfelt farewell event to honor Dr. Kanimba’s extraordinary contributions, attended by partners, colleagues, and members of the blind and visually impaired community.

Since its establishment in 1995, spearheaded by Dr. Kanimba, RUB has grown into a nationwide network with 64 branches dedicated to supporting and empowering persons with visual impairment across Rwanda. Her unparalleled dedication and advocacy have not only opened doors to education but have also paved the way for countless opportunities for those with visual impairments.

Dr. Kanimba’s advocacy led to the inclusion of persons with visual impairment in national examinations and the admission of the first group of students with visual impairments to secondary and tertiary education institutions in Rwanda. Her efforts culminated in the successful establishment of Gahini Secondary School and securing the participation of persons with visual impairment at the National University of Rwanda by 2008.

Dr. Betty Mukarwego, President of RUB, praised Dr. Kanimba’s tireless work, acknowledging the profound impact she has had: “Thanks to Dr. Donatilla’s dedication, many blind Rwandans are now educated, employed, and actively contributing to society.”

While Dr. Kanimba steps down from her role, her legacy continues to thrive through the strong democratic structures of RUB and its skilled members.

Clarisse from the Danish Association of the Blind, a key RUB partner, lauded Dr. Kanimba’s foundational role in elevating RUB to its current stature, recognizing her as an enduring role model and advisor.

Francois Xavier Karangwa, Executive Director of UPHLS, commended Dr. Kanimba’s invaluable support and guidance, which have been instrumental in empowering persons with disabilities and advancing organizational goals.

Though retired, Dr. Kanimba reaffirms her commitment to the cause: “I am ready to contribute wherever needed, and though I have retired from my role at RUB, my dedication continues.”

Dr. Kanimba’s story is one of resilience and visionary leadership. Born in Gisagara District, Rwanda, she overcame personal challenges, including losing her sight and displacement due to civil unrest, to achieve educational excellence in Kenya. Inspired by her experiences, she founded RUB in 1995, transforming it into the beacon of hope it is today, championing the rights and opportunities for persons with visual impairment in Rwanda.

The RUB community and partners extend their deepest appreciation to Dr. Kanimba for her years of unwavering service and leadership. Her legacy illuminates the path forward as RUB continues to build upon the foundation she so passionately created.