Deaf people call for collaboration with media on sexual reproductive health and right

While speaking during a sensitization workshop of their members on SRHR in Embu town, they said they deserve equal access to reproductive health information and services saying it's time to break the silence and bridge the gap since they are left behind. 

In the workshop dubbed "leveraging the media to promote SRHR for young deaf adolescents" they said they feel left behind on  reproductive health citing lack of accessible information and understanding on the whole issue of reproductive health.

To express their disappointment, they observed that the communication barriers at healthcare facilities make it difficult for them to access the services they need in hospitals.

The deaf also called on the government to ensure healthcare providers receive training in sign language and cultural competence to better serve the deaf community.

''We are calling for collaboration. Let's work together to create accessible materials and ensure deaf friendly services,''said Jacob Mugambi who is hearing impaired.

Further, they noted that empowering the deaf community with accurate information the deaf will be able to promote better health outcome.

He called on media to collaborate with the deaf on reproductive matters saying its crucial to ensure inclusive information access for the deaf community.    

Mugambi said parents were also ill-equipped or didn't know how to share health messages to their deaf adolescents and youth, limiting their access to this critical information and care.

They argued that clear communication through sign language interpretation and accessible content can bridge important gaps in understanding and healthcare for all.

Jemima Apis who is also a member of the society said there is need for media and app developers to come up with user-friendly messages and applications on SRH information for them to bridge the knowledge gap.