Namibia’s deaf community, led by Linekela Nanyeni, advocates for sign language recognition as a national language for inclusivity. The parliamentary committee has supported this motion, citing international obligations. Deputy Minister Alexia Manombe-Ncube emphasizes the importance of sign language in family and societal communication, highlighting the need for educational resources to facilitate learning.
The Namibian deaf community is advocating for the recognition of sign language as a national language, urging the new government to prioritize inclusivity. Linekela Nanyeni, director of the Namibian National Association of the Deaf (NNAD), highlighted that the absence of such recognition perpetuates inequality within the society. He expressed hope that the parliamentary committee on constitutional and legal affairs will support this motion, marking a significant achievement for both Namibian and global deaf communities.
During discussions, the committee reported on including sign language as a recognized language in parliamentary proceedings. Kletus Karondo, committee chairperson, confirmed that the National Assembly has proposed incorporating sign language into official parliamentary languages. This initiative aligns with Namibia’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which affirms the rights of individuals with disabilities.
Furthermore, the recommendations from the committee have been directed to various ministries, including education and labor, emphasizing the necessity of sign language in diverse public domains. Deputy Minister for Disability Affairs, Alexia Manombe-Ncube, previously tabled the motion in 2022, reinforcing that sign language is vital for fostering communication within families and communities. She advocated for comprehensive resources to support families learning sign language and urged equipping early childhood development centers with necessary educational materials to promote this essential skill.
In conclusion, the Namibian deaf community continues to call for the recognition of sign language as a national language to enhance inclusivity and equality. This initiative has gained traction within parliamentary discussions, with significant support from various governmental bodies. The incorporation of sign language not only improves communication among individuals but also ensures the rights and dignity of the deaf community are upheld, aligning with international standards and obligations.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
