Sign language training expands horizons for refugees in Rwanda
Sign language training expands horizons for refugees in Rwanda
Having sought refuge in Rwanda in 2015, Ange Bukweberi has recently completed a transformative sign language course in Kigali. The Burundian refugee, who was previously working at a physiotherapy clinic in Kigali hopes to use her newfound skills in non-verbal communication to embark on a new journey assisting others in her community.
The three-month course was organized by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Rwanda in collaboration with Rwanda National Association of Deaf Women, Prison Fellowship Rwanda, and Humanity Inclusion. It was attended by 22 urban refugees, including Ange, and other Burundian and Congolese refugees living in Kigali.
Reflecting on the impact of her newly gained skills, Ange recounts a significant experience when a lawyer sought her help to communicate with a deaf client during a court case.
“A lawyer friend of mine was defending a deaf client in court. Unfortunately, the lawyer couldn't communicate in sign language,” Ange explains. “The lawyer called me for help, and I stepped in to facilitate communication between the court, the lawyer, and the deaf client.
At the end of the proceedings, Ange says, all parties involved were very satisfied. The lawyer, the client, and the court expressed their appreciation for her invaluable contribution. In a gesture of thanks, they offered her some money as a small acknowledgment of the immense impact she had made on that day.
This success has motivated Ange to explore more ways to contribute to the community.
Her determination led her to volunteer at specialized school for autistic children, where she supports deaf children. The school's head, recognizing Ange's unique skill set—combining expertise in autism support with sign language proficiency—has recently offered her a promising job opportunity.
“The deaf children were thrilled to find someone they could communicate with, and the school's head was equally pleased to have someone experienced in treating autism and skilled in sign language,” Ange explains. “As a result, she promised me a position at the school, and I am eagerly awaiting the formal job offer.”
The joy of the deaf children at finding someone who could understand them mirrors the gratitude Ange feels for her sign language training. Ange says she would not have been able to make this extra step if she had not attended the course.
The sign language course, which is part of efforts by UNHCR in Rwanda to bridge communication gaps and empower refugees with disabilities, is an essential part of the organization’s strategy to provide inclusive protection services.
On the International Day of Disabled Persons, Ange is encouraging others in her community to take up similar challenges.
“Knowing sign language is crucial, especially for us refugees,” Ange says. “Sometimes, important information is shared, but if you're deaf and there's no one to convey the message, you might miss out. When you have the language skills, you can help others in our community stay informed."