Media asked to promote welfare of disabled

Kenya Television Network (KTN) has been lauded as one of the few media outlets that promotes the welfare of persons living with disabilities.

Speaking during a workshop on the role of media in addressing the plight of deaf children, street-working children and youth in Nairobi, Undugu Society of Kenya (USK) Project Officer Jane Muthoni said KTN presents news with a sign language interpreter, which enables people with hearing impairment follow news.

"People with hearing impairment can follow and enjoy current affairs nationally and the world at large," she said. She urged other television stations across the country to follow suit.

However, Ms Muthoni challenged media houses to come up with programmes that can be enjoyed by people with hearing impairments, and not only signing news.

USK Advocacy Officer Garnet Maina said that over 4.6 million Kenyans are living with disabilities. Such a big number should be considered when initiating development in the country.

Garnet said time had come for the public to learn the basics in sign language, so as to ease communication with deaf people.

CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT

She wondered why the Government has not introduced sign language in schools just like they do in foreign countries, yet the Constitution recognises sign language.

"Since our constitution recognises sign language, the Government should promote it by making it a subject in schools for everyone to learn," she urged.

During the event, youths with hearing impairments narrated how the society is being unfair to them.

Lawrence Musili, a member of the Deaf Ability Initiative, complained that although many positions are advertised, it is hard for them to get jobs. "I went to college and qualified but I am still unemployed," said Musili.