By M, KNA
Nanyuki residents in Laikipia County have marked International Sign Language Day with a call to train more sign language interpreters to ease communication for the deaf community and improve their quality of life.
The day is commemorated globally on September 23, and this year’s theme was “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights.” The theme emphasizes that deaf human rights, accessibility, and sign language equality are crucial for inclusivity in society.
Dominic Maroko, a representative of the deaf community in Laikipia, told KNA during celebrations at the Laikipia CDF Hall that lack of adequate interpreters in hospitals has led to frequent misdiagnoses.
He noted that public institutions should prioritize engaging interpreters to ensure deaf people access quality services and contribute to development.
“Over the years, we have been experiencing communication barriers and have been unable to participate fully in activities that benefit us. However, we are now taking part in sports like volleyball across the county,” said Maroko, speaking through his interpreter, Sabina Wangechi.
During the event, participants also benefited from a free medical camp organized by the county government.
According to the 2019 Kenya National Population Census, there are about 153,381 deaf people aged five years and above in Kenya. The report shows that most live in rural areas, with 129,518 compared to 3,843 in urban areas.
The celebrations highlighted the urgent need for the government and stakeholders to invest in training interpreters to enhance communication and ensure the deaf community is not left behind in social, health, and development programs.