Hearing-Impaired Mothers in Jinja Demand Sign Language Interpreters at Health Centers

Women with hearing impairments in Jinja City are pushing for sign language interpreters to be placed in health facilities. This move aims to close the communication divide between deaf patients, their caregivers, and healthcare workers.

Activist Esther Namulinda from the disability rights movement highlighted how the lack of interpreters causes unnecessary suffering. Many affected individuals skip health visits due to these gaps and perceived bias.

Speaking at a human rights forum by the Support Organisation of Parents with Disabilities (SOPADI) at Kivubuka Primary School, attendees included disabled mothers, parents of special needs children, educators, social workers, and local leaders from Jinja’s Northern Division.

Mothers shared stories of midwife harassment, including insulting language and missing aids. Consequently, some pregnant women opt for traditional birth attendants over standard antenatal services.

The discussion also covered school challenges, where teachers’ derogatory comments label these children as poor or disabled offspring, leading to isolation, poor grades, and dropouts. Deziranta Tibiwa from Bufuula Village noted the deep emotional toll.

Namulinda called for special needs educators in every school, plus resources like Braille tools and building ramps for better access.

Probation officer Elizabeth Mutesi for Jinja’s Northern Division stressed respecting everyone’s rights irrespective of ability, race, or gender.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)