African deaf advocates demand sign language recognition and accessibility

Deaf advocacy groups across several African nations are intensifying calls for the legal recognition of sign languages and improved accessibility to ensure social and economic inclusion.

In Nigeria, the Nigeria National Association of the Deaf (NNAD) held the Nigerian Sign Language Convention 2.0 in Abuja. Leaders emphasized the need for a stronger legal framework to protect Nigerian Sign Language as a fundamental right linked to equality and dignity.

In Côte d'Ivoire, the NGO Handi Senso Plus advocated for sign language recognition in Bouaké, highlighting its role as a lever for accessing education and employment. Similarly, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Institut des jeunes sourds reported significant challenges, including a lack of trained teachers and interpreters in mainstream schools.

In Namibia, the Namibian National Association of the Deaf (NNAD) met with the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) to demand more sign language interpretation on educational and entertainment programming. Advocates noted that while some news programs include interpreters, critical segments like parliament sessions and business shows often lack the accessibility required for deaf citizens to participate fully in society.