Huduma Kenya has rolled out sign language interpretation services at 20 Huduma Centres across the country in a move aimed at improving access to government services for deaf customers.
In a notice issued on Wednesday, July 1, the agency said the initiative is intended to ensure that deaf persons receive the communication support they need when accessing services at selected Huduma Centres.
The centres offering the service include Mombasa, Siaya, Nakuru, Kakamega, Vihiga, Makadara, Bungoma, City Square, Eastleigh and GPO in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
Huduma Kenya Rolls Out Sign Language Services in 20 Centres. Photo: Courtesy.
Others are Homa Bay, Isiolo, Kibra, Kilifi, Kirinyaga, Kisumu, Laikipia, Marsabit, Nyeri and Samburu.
The rollout comes just days after the National Assembly passed the Kenyan Sign Language Bill, 2023, which seeks to promote inclusivity and guarantee equal access to information, education and public services for persons who are deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind.
Sponsored by Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo and nominated MP Umulkheir Harun, the Bill gives effect to constitutional provisions recognising Kenyan Sign Language as an official language of communication and safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities to access services through appropriate communication formats.
The proposed law also establishes the Kenya Sign Language Council, a statutory body that will oversee the regulation, development and preservation of Kenyan Sign Language.
The latest development follows another recent initiative by Huduma Kenya to expand access to retirement and pension services across the country.
Earlier this week, the agency announced a partnership with the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) to train Huduma Centre staff to assist members of the public with retirement planning and pension-related services.
According to Huduma Kenya, the programme is designed to strengthen service delivery by equipping customer service officers with the knowledge needed to guide Kenyans on retirement benefits and pension matters.
