MBABANE – The Deputy Prime Minister’s Office has launched the International Week of the Deaf under the theme No human right without sign language rights.
Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, represented by Principal Secretary Siboniso Nkambule, officiated the launch in partnership with the Eswatini National Deaf Association. The national commemoration will take place tomorrow, 23 September 2025, at the association’s headquarters in Mahlanya.
Nkambule said the event serves as a reminder for all Emaswati to support the Deaf community and embrace diversity. He noted that continued advocacy is vital for ensuring the community is recognised for its contribution to national development. He also urged citizens to learn sign language and to treat Eswatini Sign Language as a linguistic right and an effective form of communication.
The DPM’s Office pledged to keep pushing for the promotion of sign language across different sectors so that no one is excluded. Nkambule explained that communication barriers remain a major challenge and insisted that sign language should be recognised as an official language in the country.
Chairperson of the Eswatini National Deaf Association, Makhosini Makhubu, commended the DPM’s Office for its commitment to the Deaf community. He said recognition of sign language as an official language would ensure inclusivity.
Meanwhile, the National Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities raised concerns over a shortage of sign language interpreters in tertiary institutions. Council member Ncamsile Buthelezi said this gap was making it difficult for graduates from Matsetsa School for the Deaf to cope at higher levels of education.
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