Fidy Manantsoa, a familiar face on Madagascar's TVM network, has been making waves with his exceptional sign language interpretation skills. For 12 years, from 2009 to 2021, he worked as a sign language interpreter on the noon news broadcast, providing real-time translations for the deaf and hard of hearing community. His work is a testament to the importance of inclusion and accessibility in the media. Manantsoa's journey into sign language interpretation began in 2006 when he was a student in communication at the University of Antananarivo.
Manantsoa's passion for the anthropology of language led him to explore sign language, and he went on to receive training from the Federation of the Deaf in Madagascar. He became an interpreter in 2009 and has since become a pioneer in his field. According to Manantsoa, sign language is a distinct language with its own grammar, scientifically recognized as such since the 1960s. He emphasizes that sign language interpretation is not just about translating words but also about conveying the nuances and cultural context of the message.
Manantsoa's work on live TV is particularly challenging, requiring him to think on his feet and maintain neutrality while conveying the message accurately. He has to consider factors such as breaking news, VIP guests, and the pressure of working in real-time. Despite these challenges, Manantsoa is committed to his work and strives to provide high-quality interpretations that cater to the needs of the deaf and hard of hearing community.
The deaf community in Madagascar has its own unique culture, rich in visual humor, jokes, and codes. Manantsoa notes that sometimes people mistake him for a deaf person, and he is often approached in sign language on the street. He takes this as a compliment, highlighting the strong bond between him and the deaf community. Manantsoa's work has not only helped to promote inclusion but also to raise awareness about the importance of sign language interpretation.
Despite the demands of his job and the mental pressure that comes with it, Manantsoa's profession remains undervalued, with interpreters earning relatively low rates. He earns around 100,000 ariary per half-day, which is significantly lower than the rate of traditional translators. Nevertheless, Manantsoa remains dedicated to his work and has taken steps to promote the profession and train the next generation of sign language interpreters.
In 2025, Manantsoa launched the Signe et Inclusion agency to provide training and support for aspiring sign language interpreters. His goal is to promote the profession and ensure that sign language interpretation becomes more widely recognized and valued. Through his work, Manantsoa aims to empower the deaf and hard of hearing community, enabling them to access information and participate fully in society.
Manantsoa's contributions to sign language interpretation have been invaluable, and his dedication to promoting inclusion and accessibility has made a significant impact on the lives of many Malagasy people. As the media continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize the importance of sign language interpretation and provide opportunities for professionals like Manantsoa to continue their vital work.
Key points
- Fidy Manantsoa has been a pioneer in sign language interpretation in Madagascar, working as a sign language interpreter on TVM's noon news broadcast for 12 years.
- Manantsoa launched the Signe et Inclusion agency in 2025 to promote the profession and train the next generation of sign language interpreters.
- Despite the challenges and undervaluation of his profession, Manantsoa remains committed to promoting inclusion and accessibility for the deaf and hard of hearing community in Madagascar.
