By Lizzy Carr
The Zonal Secretary Deaf Women Association of Nigerian, (DWAN) Miyawa Mshelia has advocated for the provision of interpreters in health facilities for effective communication between the deaf patients and the health care providers.
Mshelia made the association’s call at the first North East 2023 Zonal Annual General Meeting and conference held on Wednesday in Bauchi.
She said deaf persons find it difficult to explain their situation to health workers who barely understand sign language thus preventing them from receiving inadequate health care and health-related Information.
“Let me give an example a deaf persons sits on queue waiting for his turn and the potter comes out or the Doctor says next, a deaf person wouldn’t understand that so we end up waiting for hours unless we go with an assistant.”
The Zonal Secretary added that they find it difficult to understand their treatment or their options especially for those who cannot read.
Mshelia stressed that the difficulties in communication cause emotional reactions with nurses and other health workers who easily lost their temper.
“There is need for manual alphabet and sign language interpreter to help us.”
The Zonal Secretary also called for women-centered policies which can better the lives of less-privileged deaf women hidden everywhere in the nation.
She noted that the meeting was to create awareness,exchange ideas, network, build capacity and establish synergy with relevant organisations.
“To address the issues of marginalisation, violation and discrimination against deaf women and girls especially in the areas of sexual and reproductive.
“We see a future where deaf women are liberated and empowered to live with dignity and excel in their chosen paths towards achieving equality for deaf women at all spheres of human endeavor .”
Bauchi State Chairperson of the Association Tabawa Garba called on government and non-governmental organisations including health care facilities, schools to support them by putting in place structures that will assist deaf people.
“Religious leaders, business owners and the like across the nation to create an inclusive community for deaf women through the provision of sign language interpreters in all activities and signage at public places.”
