The conference will take place in Nairobi from November 27 to 29 and is expected to draw over 500 stakeholders, including policymakers, advocates, and community leaders from across the continent.
Isaac Mwaura, Kenya’s government spokesperson, announced the event as an opportunity for Kenya to lead the continent in promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
“Through this conference, Kenya reaffirms its commitment to elevate the voices of persons with disabilities, fostering a future where inclusion and sustainability go hand in hand,” Mwaura stated.
The country, he added, aims to set a precedent in Africa for policies and initiatives that empower the deaf and address longstanding challenges they face.
The event, convened by the Kenya Society for Deaf Children (KSDC), a non-profit organization championing the education, health, and welfare of deaf children, will tackle various issues impacting deaf communities across Africa.
Attendees will discuss advancements in education, culture, arts, and sign language while benchmarking against global standards.
Organizers are also prioritizing discussions on the role of technology and innovation in enhancing access and improving quality of life for deaf individuals.
Participants will include persons with hearing impairments, caregivers, service providers, and scholars, facilitating a broad exchange of knowledge and strategies to advance the inclusion of deaf individuals in society.
The conference will additionally feature over 50 exhibitors from public and private sectors showcasing the latest developments in hearing solutions, educational tools, and assistive technology.
Among those expected are regional and international associations focused on deafness, Kenyan government representatives from the Ministries of Education, Health, and Social Protection, and development partners dedicated to special needs advocacy.
Academic institutions specializing in special education are also slated to attend, underscoring the event’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration for the betterment of deaf communities.
The ACD 2024 promises to not only advance Africa’s commitment to inclusive policies but also to strengthen partnerships that will catalyze progress for the rights of deaf individuals, ensuring their full participation in society.