GAMBIA ASSOCIATION OF DEAF AND HEARD OF HEARING (GADHOH) COMMEMORATES INTERNATIONAL WEEK OF THE DEAF

International Week Of The Deaf is celebrated annually across the world. The day is usual celebrated in order to stand in solidarity with those with Deaf and Heard Of Hearing in order to recognise their inherent dignity and fundamental rights and freedoms. Those with Deaf and Heard of Hearing have the right to access communication and information through sign language interpretation and with the use of hearing aid. In the year 2018, it was celebrated together for the first time officially with Official International Day of Sign Language Interpreters as declared by the United Nations.IWD was launched in 1958.

The Chief Guest of Honour to the commemoration day today is the Chairman Of Gambia Federation Of the Disabled, herein called Magistrate Muhammed Krubally. It was in the form of Press Briefing. At the breafing, the Chairman of the Umbrella Federation said, this day is significant for not only for the Deaf and Heard of Hearing but for all living in this world. He reminded the audience that, Government and all stakeholders should take all responsible, Administrative, Appropriate and Legal Measures to ensure that the rights and freedoms of the Deaf and Hearing Community are observed and catered for. He pointed out the implementation of sign language interpretation in school curriculum and on the television during broadcasting news and information.

The Executive Director, Mr Dodou Loum also said the Government should be committed to ensuring that they fund the programmes and activities of the Deaf community. He said, the People With Deaf and Heard of Hearing should be respected at all stages. He said today is very significant for the government and other stakeholders to stand in solidarity with them.
The theme of this year is REAFFIRMING THE RIGHTS OF THE DEAF.