Sign Language for All has organized a Silent Dinner at Hotel Africana in Kampala, focusing on raising awareness and supporting people living with hearing impairments. The event, held under the theme “Silent Voices, Loud Impact: Raising Awareness through Silence,” has highlighted the importance of inclusion for the deaf community.
The event was graced by the Honorable Grace Mary Mugasa, State Minister for Public Service. Speaking on behalf of the State House, she emphasized that “accessibility, inclusion, and equality are fundamental rights for every individual, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing.”
When addressing inclusivity, the Minister encourages everyone to participate in the silent auction and other activities. She highlighted that every action and contribution made helps society move closer to ensuring the deaf community has the resources and opportunities they need to fully engage in all aspects of life, including education, work, and social interaction.
Robinson Ogwang, a lecturer at Makerere University Business School, has stressed the need for everyone to understand what is happening in the community and support inclusion.
Calvin Mwahuzi, the Executive Director of Sounds of Silence Africa Initiative, explained the purpose of the dinner. He says it is aimed at raising funds to build a Deaf Center in Lira, which will offer training and services to the deaf. He points out that the deaf have faced challenges attending initiatives like presidential hubs because there are no sign language interpreters. He has suggested bringing these initiatives to centers with interpreters.
Mwahuzi introduced The Deaf Assist Application, planned for an official launch in Gulu next year in March, to help improve communication for the deaf. He has called on stakeholders, civil society organizations, and policymakers to respect deaf rights and ensure they have access to all essential services.
The event also celebrated 25 students who graduated from the Sign Language for All program. Alex Ogwal, Program Director Sign Language For All, explained that the course includes both theory and practical lessons. Classes being conducted at Ntinda, Makerere, Kyambogo, and online.
One of the graduates, Shakira Namutebi Mbabazi, a teacher at Kinawa High School, shares her reason for joining the course. She says learning sign language has helped her communicate better with her deaf friend.
The event spreads awareness, encourage inclusion, and celebrates achievements in improving communication for the deaf community.
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