Deaf community cries out: Communication barriers fuel information gap and vulnerability

Providence Moyo

The deaf community in Bulawayo is sounding the alarm on communication barriers that they say are widening the information gap in the country, leaving them vulnerable and susceptible to breaking the law.

This issue came to light during a stakeholder engagement meeting held at Mhlahlandlela in Bulawayo, hosted by the Deaf Arts National Culture Entertainment (DANCE).

Participants expressed concerns about being left out of important conversations due to a lack of sign language interpretation at crucial events, like policy consultations. Luyolo Ndlovu, a community member, shared his frustration: “Many of us have unknowingly broken the law because we don’t understand national and local bylaws. These laws are only explained to us in court after we’ve been accused of a crime. It’s unfair to punish someone for not knowing the law, especially when no effort is made to educate the deaf community beforehand.”

Disability activist Sukoluhle Mhlanga further emphasized how communication barriers contribute to isolation, stating: “These barriers keep us isolated from other communities. Limited access to sign language, a lack of deaf-friendly spaces, and societal attitudes towards deafness all contribute to feelings of exclusion and loneliness within our community.”

However, there’s a flicker of hope. The Deaf Theatre Group has taken it upon themselves to raise awareness about the deaf community and their culture through theatrical performances, workshops, and community outreach. Their first-ever touring production aims to bridge the gap and ensure the deaf community is not forgotten.

Tsungirirai Tsikira, project manager for the Deaf Arts project, explains: “We are the first Deaf Arts Group in Zimbabwe to engage in theatre, poetry, modeling, television presenting, and dance. Our goal is to show the world that we, the deaf community, have rights too. We need the stakeholders present to help us, to finally give our silent voices a platform to be heard.”

This initiative by the Deaf Theatre Group highlights the importance of communication accessibility and inclusivity. It serves as a reminder that every community deserves to be heard and understood, and that breaking down communication barriers is key to building a more just and equitable society.