The Chadian government marked the International Day of Sign Languages on September 23, 2026, by reaffirming its commitment to promoting the rights and accessibility of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. This year's theme, "Affirming the Fundamental Rights of Deaf People," highlights the importance of equal access for all citizens. The Ministry of Social Action, Solidarity, and Humanitarian Affairs emphasized its dedication to ensuring the participation of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in national life.
Minister of Social Action, Solidarity, and Humanitarian Affairs, Zara Mahamat Issa, delivered a statement on September 22, 2026, stressing that sign languages are complete languages that require recognition and accessibility. She argued that this recognition is crucial for enabling deaf individuals to access essential services like education, healthcare, justice, information, and public services. The minister's statement underscores the government's efforts to promote inclusivity for people with disabilities.
The International Day of Sign Languages is part of Chad's policy to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities. Minister Mahamat Issa emphasized that individuals with disabilities should be regarded as equal citizens, and their skills, talents, and initiatives should contribute to the country's development. The government aims to strengthen the recognition and promotion of sign languages and incorporate them into various sectors of national life.
Minister Mahamat Issa stressed that accessibility should not be considered a favor but a fundamental condition for equal rights and participation. She called for the direct involvement of people with disabilities in policies and decisions that affect them, citing the principle "Nothing about us without us." This approach encourages full participation from concerned individuals in decision-making processes.
The minister appealed to public authorities, partners, disability organizations, civil society, the private sector, and citizens to make accessibility and inclusion a collective responsibility. This initiative aligns with the ministry's vision of a Chad that is "just, solidary, inclusive, and truly accessible to all." The government seeks to create an environment where all citizens have equal opportunities.
The recognition of sign languages is a critical step toward achieving this goal. By promoting sign language accessibility, the government aims to bridge the gap between deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals and the rest of society. This effort will enable them to fully participate in national life and contribute to the country's development.
The Chadian government's commitment to sign language accessibility reflects its dedication to promoting human rights and inclusivity. By working together with various stakeholders, the government hopes to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all citizens, regardless of their abilities.
Key points
- The Chadian government reaffirms its commitment to promoting sign language accessibility on International Sign Language Day.
- Minister Zara Mahamat Issa emphasizes that accessibility is a fundamental condition for equal rights and participation.
- The government aims to strengthen the recognition and promotion of sign languages and incorporate them into various sectors of national life.
