The National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) has unveiled a project to establish a standardised national sign language in Rwanda, aimed at improving communication for individuals who are deaf, non-verbal, or have visual impairments.

In a recent presentation to the parliamentary committee on unity, human rights, and the fight against genocide, NCPD Executive Secretary Emmanuel Ndayisaba announced that the project is nearing approval.

He stressed that this initiative will lay the foundation for an officially recognised sign language, ensuring greater inclusivity for persons with disabilities across the country.

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"The initiative began with the development of a sign language dictionary and has now progressed to creating teaching materials and training schools on its use. This effort aims to establish a standardised national sign language, ensuring effective communication and inclusivity,” Ndayisaba said.

When questioned by the committee about the potential of Rwanda having five official languages, Ndayisaba clarified that the Constitution allows for the introduction of additional languages deemed necessary by Rwandans. This provision paves the way for recognising a national sign language without requiring constitutional amendments.

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He further explained that, similar to how Kiswahili was incorporated as a national language, the national sign language will be introduced in schools and integrated into the national curriculum to facilitate widespread adoption.

Addressing communication barriers

The parliamentary committee highlighted the difficulties faced by individuals with visual impairments and those who are deaf or non-verbal, particularly in accessing legal services.

Many struggle to navigate the legal system independently due to a lack of interpreters, a service that is not always readily available.

NCPD emphasised that the establishment of a national sign language will help address these challenges, ensuring that persons with disabilities can access justice on an equal basis with others. By standardising communication, the initiative will enable their full participation in legal proceedings without undue barriers.

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The need for a national sign language

MP Benoit Senani stressed the urgency of having a national sign language, noting that service providers in health centers often struggle to communicate with deaf and non-verbal individuals. This communication gap makes it difficult to address their needs effectively.

Christine Umubyeyi, Director of the Legislation, Human Rights Protection, and Monitoring Unit at the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), echoed Senani’s concerns.

She emphasised the importance of training not only service providers but also persons with disabilities to ensure effective communication in healthcare and other essential services.

"We should not only focus on teaching others the official sign language; the beneficiaries themselves must master it to better access services and be fully supported,” she added.

Ensuring inclusion and accessibility

The committee also inquired about the identification process for deaf and non-verbal individuals to ensure no one is left behind. In response, the NCPD highlighted the role of the Disability Management Information System (DMIS), which helps register and track persons with disabilities across Rwanda, ensuring they receive necessary support.

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Minister of Local Government Patrice Mugenzi underscored the importance of quality services for persons with disabilities once the national sign language is established. He stressed that these individuals should have equal opportunities in all areas of life, including financial inclusion, as a fundamental human right.

A step toward greater inclusion

Dr. Donatilla Kanimba, Executive Director of the Rwanda Union of the Blind, praised the initiative, noting that a national sign language will enhance communication for persons with disabilities, enabling better interaction within their families and the broader community.

"Communication is essential for everyone. In the past, people often misunderstood deaf or non-verbal individuals, assuming they were quick to anger, anti-social, or arrogant.

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However, these issues stem from a lack of communication. Once a national sign language is established, everyone will be able to communicate effectively and be fully included in society,” she said.