By Mayamiko Mwikhoma

Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has called on government and other stakeholders to address barriers affecting the rights and participation of deaf people in the country.

MHRC Executive Secretary Habiba Osman made the call as Malawi observes the International Week of Deaf People from September 21 to 27, alongside the International Day of Sign Languages on September 23.

In a statement, Osman said deaf people continue to face challenges such as limited access to healthcare, exclusion in education, difficulties accessing justice and legal services, economic marginalisation and limited access to public information.

The commission has called for the recruitment and deployment of certified Malawi Sign Language interpreters in public institutions and the private sector.

MHRC has also urged government to provide predictable funding for programmes aimed at empowering deaf people and improving their access to essential services and human rights.