EU joins Zimbabwe in marking International Day of Sign Languages

EU joins Zimbabwe in marking International Day of Sign Languages

On this International Day of Sign Languages, the EU celebrates Zimbabwe's Deaf community and reflects on its ongoing efforts to promote inclusion - from theatre and drama initiatives to the first-ever live sign language interpretation of the NAMA Awards and greater accessibility at ZITF.

Every year, 23 September marks the International Day of Sign Languages, a reminder of the importance of linguistic diversity and the universal right to communication.

In Zimbabwe, the EU has consistently championed greater accessibility and inclusion for the Deaf community. Through the Creative Actions programme, we supported theatre and drama initiatives for Deaf performers, helping to amplify their voices and talents. In 2022, the EU made history at the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) by supporting the first-ever live sign language interpretation of the ceremony, streamed to audiences nationwide.

Most recently, during the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), the EU ensured that sign language interpretation was part of not only the EU stand but also the Team Europe press conference, where Ambassadors and EU Member States engaged with the public and media.

These initiatives reflect the EU's commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind. On this International Day of Sign Languages, we stand in solidarity with Zimbabwe's Deaf community, celebrating inclusion, accessibility, and the right of every individual to be heard.