Mpho Morolong: Botswana Sign Language Official Language Proposal

• Kgatleng Central MP Mpho Morolong proposed making sign language Botswana's third official language to promote inclusivity.
• The motion was adopted in a previous parliamentary sitting and aims to improve communication and access to information for deaf individuals.
• Morolong plans to advocate for regional recognition of sign language at the SADC Parliamentary Forum.
• Community members largely welcomed the proposal but also raised concerns about the use of Setswana by officials and digital exclusion for the elderly.
• The initiative is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing deaf community rights and creating new employment opportunities.

The MP highlighted that numerous countries have already moved to officially recognize sign language, suggesting that Botswana should adopt a similar progressive stance.

Kgatleng Central Member of Parliament, Mr. Mpho Morolong, has put forward a significant proposal to designate sign language as Botswana's third official language. This initiative, which has already gained traction in a previous parliamentary sitting where it was adopted as a motion, aims to foster greater inclusivity and bridge communication gaps between the deaf community and hearing individuals across the nation. Morolong recently discussed the proposal at a kgotla meeting in Ntshinoge Ward, Mochudi, emphasizing its role in broader policy efforts designed to dismantle communication barriers faced by those who rely on sign language.

The MP highlighted that numerous countries have already moved to officially recognize sign language, suggesting that Botswana should adopt a similar progressive stance. Such a move, he argued, would ensure that deaf citizens are not marginalized from public discourse or denied access to vital information. Morolong acknowledged that he had not consulted his constituents before tabling the motion in Parliament, for which he offered an apology, and urged public engagement to facilitate the proposal's successful implementation.

Mr. Morolong underscored the critical need for improved communication, particularly in emergency situations where the inability of most people to understand sign language can severely impede interaction with deaf individuals. He stressed that sign language transcends national borders, serving as a universal communication tool. Furthermore, he pointed out that individuals with hearing impairments frequently find themselves at a disadvantage during community gatherings, such as kgotla meetings, where information is predominantly conveyed through spoken word, effectively excluding them from civic participation.

The proposal also envisages the introduction of sign language instruction in schools, which Morolong identified as a crucial initial step. This educational integration is not only expected to enhance communication accessibility but also to generate new employment opportunities for individuals proficient in sign language. Looking beyond national borders, the MP announced his intention to present the Mpho Morolong sign language motion to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Parliamentary Forum, advocating for member states to consider recognizing sign language as a third official language across the region. This regional push aligns with efforts to strengthen deaf community rights Botswana.

The proposal has garnered support from the community, with Mr. Molefhe Morokotso welcoming the initiative as a solution to long-standing communication challenges experienced by deaf people. However, Morokotso also raised a separate but related concern, urging public officials to increase their use of Setswana when communicating with residents. He noted that many citizens comprehend the local language more effectively than English, and an overreliance on English can inadvertently prevent some community members from accessing important information, thereby infringing on their right to participate in public affairs.

Another resident, Ms. Bontle Segokgo, also expressed support for the introduction of sign language but cautioned leaders to consider the information needs of elderly individuals, particularly those who lack access to social media. She highlighted the risk of excluding older community members, who often depend on traditional communication channels, if information dissemination becomes overly reliant on digital platforms. Ms. Dineo Radikolo similarly voiced her approval, recognizing the significant benefit the proposal would bring to the many community members who primarily communicate through sign language.

In response to these concerns, Mr. Morolong affirmed the importance of public officials communicating more effectively in Setswana and committed to relaying the community's feedback to the relevant authorities. Addressing the broader issue of information accessibility, he also disclosed ongoing plans for the establishment of a community radio station, Sedibelo FM, indicating that the necessary arrangements are in place, with only a suitable venue pending. This highlights the multifaceted nature of Botswana accessibility legislation discussions.

Lawyers and compliance officers in Botswana should monitor the progress of this proposal, as its adoption could lead to new legislative requirements for public and private entities regarding communication accessibility, potentially necessitating the provision of sign language interpretation in services, public information, and legal proceedings.

Source: Original reporting via local media