WINDHOEK — In a move toward inclusivity, the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Corporation, Jenelly Matundu, has voiced support for the motion to introduce sign language as a national language in Namibia. The proposal also includes appointing a sign language interpreter for live parliamentary debates, enhancing accessibility for hearing-impaired citizens.

According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), The motion, initially tabled in September by Deputy Minister of Disability Affairs Alexia Manombe-Ncube, aligns with Namibia’s constitution and its international commitments, such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Manombe-Ncube emphasized that sign language and deaf culture are integral to promoting and preserving linguistic and cultural diversity globally and in Namibia.

During a parliamentary session on Monday, Matundu argued for the necessity of securing linguistic rights for hearing-impaired individuals. She pointed out the benefits of sign language communication for various groups, including those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or struggle with the English language. Matundu proposed that government offices, agencies, and the private sector should incorporate basic sign language training for employees to better accommodate hearing-impaired persons.

She highlighted the exclusion of hearing-impaired individuals from important national discussions due to the lack of sign language interpretation in parliamentary debates. Parliamentarian Kletus Karondo also supported the motion, stressing the challenges faced by hearing-impaired persons in daily communication, healthcare access, and interaction with the criminal justice system. Karondo emphasized the importance of ensuring access to information in a modern digital world, underlining the need for Namibia to keep pace with global advancements.