Dennis Moogi, CEO of Cresnet and member of the Nairobi Disability Caucus, played a pivotal role in a key policy advocacy engagement at Parliament Buildings. Appearing alongside members of Kenya National Association of the Deaf, Moogi co-led the delegation making oral submissions on the Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) Bills before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Social Protection. The committee chaired by Hon. Alice Wambui Ng’ang’a MP Thika Town, has prominent members of parliament including Hon. Dr. James Nyakal, Hon. Tim Wanyonyi, Hon. Hussein Barre, Hon Agnes Pareyio, Hon Suleka Harun among others.
During his submission, Moogi highlighted the pressing need to harmonise the two Kenyan Sign Language Bills currently being processed in Parliament. “It is critical that we bring these two bills together into one cohesive piece of legislation. The matter of Kenyan Sign Language has been in discussion for the last eight years, and it is time to fast-track the process to deliver meaningful change for the deaf community,” Moogi urged. He stressed that this legislative effort is not just about language, but about recognising and valuing deaf culture as a vital part of Kenya’s national identity.
The delegation, emphasized that harmonising these bills is essential for achieving a unified legal framework that supports the full integration of KSL into Kenya’s education system and public services. Moogi pointed out that the lengthy discussions over the years have delayed crucial reforms that would strengthen the use and development of Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) and address the disconnect between education curricula and the needs of deaf students.
Kenyan Sign Language, already recognised as an official language in the Constitution, continues to face challenges in terms of implementation and support. The delegation called on lawmakers to ensure that once harmonised, the bill is fast-tracked through the legislative process, enabling better access to education, government communication, and public services for those with hearing impairments.
As a passionate advocate for inclusivity and equal rights, Moogi reiterated Cresnet’s commitment to driving change and ensuring that the voices of persons with disabilities are heard. The recommendations put forth by the delegation aim to make KSL accessible, widely recognized, and an integral part of Kenya’s social fabric. This meeting marks a significant moment in the push for legislative action that will shape the future of Kenyan Sign Language, bringing the country closer to achieving equality for all its citizens.
