Africa’s media sign language interpreters have raised concerns over low payment, inadequate training, and the absence of interpretation services in important programs meant to cater to the deaf community.

Speaking during the first Africa Media Sign Language Interpreter Conference held in Nairobi on Friday, they revealed plans to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop tools that can recognise African languages and translate them into sign language.

“These interpreters are often overworked, underpaid, and underrepresented. We must recognise them as professionals and ensure they are properly trained and supported,” said Moreen Nambalirwa, President of the Uganda National Association of Sign Language Interpreters. Among the participants were sign language interpreters from Kenya, Uganda, Senegal, South Africa, and other African countries.

Various panelists noted that while many African media houses include sign language interpretation during news segments, other programs—such as entertainment, education, and public awareness campaigns—often exclude deaf audiences.

Naomie Koffi, a media sign language interpreter from Senegal, stressed the importance of formal training and national recognition of media sign language interpreters.

“In Senegal, even during news segments, there is no sign language interpretation except during parliamentary sessions or presidential press conferences. Neither is the language officially recognised nor widely taught,” Koffi said.