L’auto-efficacité des malvoyants dans leurs déplacements à Yaoundé : défis liés à l’accessibilité et stratégies d’adaptation

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the self-efficacy of visually impaired individuals in navigating Yaoundé, identifying the main urban accessibility challenges and the adaptive strategies they employ to overcome them. From both a theoretical and practical perspective, the research seeks to understand how environmental and social constraints influence their abilities, as well as the individual and collective mechanisms they develop to maintain autonomy. Methodologically, this study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining questionnaires and in-depth structured interviews with impaired persons. Quantitative data measured the frequency of encountered obstacles and the perceived effectiveness of adaptive strategies, while qualitative data enriched the analysis with detailed experiential narratives. Direct observation of mobility conditions in various neighborhoods of Yaoundé complemented this data collection. The results reveal that 47,8% of participants perceive their mobility as difficult due to major physical barriers and socio-cultural factors. Despite these challenges, visually impaired individuals deploy varied adaptive strategies, predominantly using white canes (48,7% of cases) and relying on human assistance (20,5%). However, the absence of adaptive technologies such as voice-assisted GPS and poor enforcement of accessibility laws significantly limit their autonomy. The discussion highlights a gap between political commitments (law No.2010/002, UN convention on the Rights of persons with disabilities) and their practical implementation. It also underscores the key role of community networks associations in strengthening the self-efficacy of visually impaired individuals, despite often insufficient resources. Finally, the study emphasizes the need for a holistic approach, integrating inclusive urban planning, awareness campaigns, and better training for public stakeholders. In conclusion, this research confirms that the self-efficacy of visually impaired individuals in Yaoundé is strongly influenced by multidimensional constraints but also by their ability to develop resilient strategies. It advocates for coordinated intervention by public authorities, civil society organizations and citizens to transform Yaoundé into a truly inclusive city.