Gauteng Social Development Puts Inclusion at the Centre of Deaf People’s Month
September is the International Month for Deaf People. The international Month for Deaf People is celebrated under the theme “Declaring Deaf People’s Human Rights”. The theme is particularly significant in 2026 as it marks 20 years of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The Gauteng Department of Social Development is using National Month of Deaf People to restate its commitment to ensuring that Deaf People are included in social and economic opportunities and have equal access to services and support.
The Department works with organisations in the disability sector to promote the rights, independence and participation of Persons with Disabilities. This includes supporting community-based organisations and initiatives that provide services, skills development, empowerment and social support to People with Disabilities.
The Department also continues to promote awareness of disability rights and to strengthen partnerships with the sector to ensure that People with Disabilities are not excluded from programmes aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable communities.
Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, said inclusion must be reflected in the way government delivers services and engages communities. “National Month of Deaf People reminds us that inclusion must be more than a commitment on paper. We must ensure that deaf people can access services, participate in their communities and take advantage of opportunities available to all Gauteng residents. Our work is about removing barriers and ensuring that no one is left behind.”
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko said the Department would continue working with organisations representing deaf people and the broader disability sector to strengthen support and promote greater independence.“We value the contribution of the disability sector because it helps us understand the realities faced by people in our communities. Through our partnerships, we will continue supporting interventions that promote dignity, participation, skills development and independence for Persons with Disabilities.”
The Department calls on communities to recognise the abilities and contributions of deaf people and to work towards a Gauteng where disability is never a barrier to accessing services, opportunities and a dignified life.
