Kenya launches first sign language interpreters’ app

Kenya marked a significant milestone on Thursday with the launch of AssistALL, a mobile application designed to provide sign language interpretation services for people with hearing impairment.

Developed by Signs Media Kenya Limited, AssistALL is the pioneering mobile app of its kind in Kenya, catering to the communication needs of the deaf community.

Originally conceived to address communication

challenges between deaf people and healthcare providers during the initial

stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, AssistALL has expanded its reach to various sectors.

The application is now actively employed in higher education, general healthcare, the judicial system, government services, and the finance sector.

Maureen Mbaka, the Chief Administrative Secretary for

ICT and Broadcasting, emphasised the potential impact of AssistALL in

overcoming communication barriers within healthcare services.

“Henceforth, doctors or nurses who don’t understand Sign Language can diagnose illness and administer medication to the people with hearing loss via this app, hence improving delivery of healthcare to this critical population,” said Mbaka.

Research conducted by Signs Media Kenya Limited revealed a notable discrepancy in mobile ownership between people with and without disabilities in Kenya.

The mobile ownership disability gap stands at 11%, indicating that disabled people are 11% less likely to own a mobile phone than their non-disabled counterparts.

Furthermore, the research indicates a substantial 72% gap in smartphone ownership, with disabled people being significantly less likely to own a smartphone compared to those without disabilities.

The launch of AssistALL aims to address these disparities and promote inclusivity in mobile technology access for all.

Olajumoke Adeleke