At the heart of SLFA’s work is the belief that Deaf people must be seen, heard, and valued. The group organises monthly “Meet and Sign” gatherings, which bring Deaf and hearing communities together to build relationships and foster empathy.
Willy Chowoo
Gulu, Uganda – As the world marks International Deaf Awareness Week 2025 under the theme “No Human Rights without Sign Language Rights,” Ugandan advocate and educator Ogwal Alex is calling on society to recognize sign language as a fundamental human right.
Ogwal, the Founder and CEO of Sign Language for All (SLFA), has turned what started as a personal conviction into a movement that now spans seven districts across Uganda, including Mukono, Entebbe, Kalangala, Lira, Gulu, Kitgum, and Kampala. From a single participant at Makerere University’s Freedom Square in 2022, SLFA has grown into a community of more than 100 active members; both Deaf and hearing allies.
“we strive to reduce communication gaps and create spaces where deal individuals feel seen,” Ogwal said. “Every hand that learns to sign brings us closer to a society where communication is a right, not a privilege.”
The International Week of the Deaf People and International Day of Sign Language 2025 runs from 22nd-26th September 2025.
Building Inclusive Communities
At the heart of SLFA’s work is the belief that Deaf people must be seen, heard, and valued. The group organises monthly “Meet and Sign” gatherings, which bring Deaf and hearing communities together to build relationships and foster empathy. Partnerships with institutions such as the University of Kisubi-Entebbe, Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery, and St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor in Gulu have further strengthened efforts to bridge communication gaps.
SLFA recently trained medics at St. Mary’s hospital, Lacor, on basic skills in sign language interpretation to help access healthcare services by the deaf people. or hearing-impaired individuals.
Tech-Driven Solutions
In response to the persistent shortage of interpreters and resources, SLFA has embraced innovation. In collaboration with Kakebe Technologies, the group developed the Deaf Assist Mobile App, which connects Deaf users to interpreters across Uganda via a district-based database and video call interface – a potential lifeline during emergencies.
The app has already received strong endorsements from professionals. Felix Eling, the Head of the Pharmacy Department at EAIMBS in Gulu City, described the Deaf Assist app as an outstanding innovation. He noted that it is user-friendly and easy to navigate even for first-time users, praising its user-friendliness and inclusivity:
“I had the opportunity to use the Deaf Assist app, and I must say it is an outstanding innovation. What truly impressed me is how it bridges communication gaps by supporting not only the Deaf community but also sign language interpreters and the general public who wish to engage inclusively,” Eling narrates.
According to him, the app goes beyond basic functionality by supporting a wide range of activities that make everyday interactions smoother and more accessible. He emphasized that this versatility makes Deaf Assist a valuable tool for education, healthcare, business, and social settings, and recommended it as a reliable, inclusive, and effective platform that empowers communication and fosters equal participation for all individuals.
SLFA has also produced a Beginner’s Sign Language Handbook and complementary YouTube tutorials, enabling learners to practice at their own pace.
Transforming Services Through Training
Beyond advocacy, SLFA is equipping professionals with skills to serve the Deaf community better. Through collaborations with universities and hospitals, nurses, midwives, and medical professionals have received training in sign language. More than 50 health workers have benefited from SLFA’s FACES Project, which promotes Deaf-centered health practices and was supported by the U.S. Mission Uganda and Institute Cerba.
Annual activities such as the Sign It Challenge, Silent Dinner, and Sign Language Debate Challenge allow Deaf and hearing participants to practice sign language through song translation, skits, and debates, keeping awareness efforts active throughout the year.
Celebrating Gains, Confronting Challenges
While SLFA has made strides, Ogwal admits the journey has not been without hurdles. Funding remains a major challenge, with many donors focusing on mainstream projects. As a result, the organization often relies on contributions from members and community fundraisers to keep initiatives alive.
Still, Ogwal remains optimistic. “To every donor and supporter who has believed in us – thank you. Your generosity makes this movement possible,” he said.
As Deaf Awareness Week unfolds, Ogwal is urging Ugandans and global allies to take practical steps:
“Let us unite to ensure that no deaf child grows up without a voice, and no human right is denied because of silence,” Ogwal emphasized. “Together, let’s sign for equality.”
