Call to incorporate sign language interpreters in public offices

Sep 24, 2023 - 14:58

People with hearing impairment in Thika hold street campaigns to champion their rights.

Thika,

Sunday, September 24, 2023

KNA by Muoki Charles

People with hearing impairment in Thika have decried discrimination by the government and the society due to lack of sign language interpreters in most offices.

They said they end up missing out on essential government services and empowerment programmes due to the communication breakdowns, when accessing the services and called for sign language interpreters to be employed across offices. This, they said, would ease access to services in various offices.

Led by Paul Macharia, an instructor and a sign language interpreter, they called on the government to ensure every sector in both public and private entities have a sign language interpreter.

Speaking during a deaf awareness campaign to champion their rights, they said the neglect has led to frustration and depression with little intervention coming by.

They said besides English and Kiswahili, sign language is recognized by the constitution and must be embedded in various offices.

"The challenges that our people go through while seeking services, especially in hospitals, police stations and other offices, is frustrating due to the lack of a sign language interpreter. Most of them end up embarrassed or not getting served at all due to the communication barriers, “said Macharia.

Macharia at the same time called on the society to end stigma which he said still remains a big challenge affecting this group despite them possessing exceptional abilities.

They cited the health department saying in most cases health care providers give them wrong medication due to communication breakdown.

At police stations, they said many victims of rape and defilement cases end up losing the case, with no sign language interpreters at the stations to help them file the matter and help them through the judicial process.

Boniface Muriuki, one of those with hearing impairments decried lack of representation in work places and called for equality when it comes to employment opportunities.

Courtesy; KNA