Deaf Women Aloud Initiative (DWAI) has successfully launched her long-awaited publication on Sexual & Reproductive Health. The book, a compilation of sexual and reproductive terminologies was written and illustrated in the Nigerian Sign Language.
The first of its kind in Nigeria and Africa to promote the language of the deaf – thereby enhancing its recognition in society’s mainstream. The Glossary is mainly intended to bridge the communication gap between health workers and Deaf women/girls in health institutions.
DWAI, on Thursday, unveiled and launched the book to mark the International Human Rights Day at Chelsea Hotel, Abuja with support from Oxfam Voice Nigeria.
In a welcome address by DWAI’s boss, Mrs Hellen Beyioku-Alase, narrating how the idea was birthed, recalled: “The vision for the project came eight years ago following my experience and that of other Deaf women when we tried to access sexual and reproductive health service in the language we understand.
“Since the vision was conceived, bringing it to fruition has not been a walk in the park, however, the passion to stand up for our rights has made it possible for us to hold this beautiful work in our hands today”
Commenting further on the lofty expectations for the book, Mrs Hellen noted, “With the help of this book, we hope to see a world where everyone can sign. A world where health professionals communicate with their Deaf patients in sign language thereby minimising the risk of misinformation and the open door of accessibility to sexual and reproductive health service.”