Speaking on West Coast Radio’s Coffee Time show with host Peter Gomez, Dr. Ceesay said concrete steps have already been taken to ensure that persons with hearing disabilities can finally access national broadcasts, beginning with the main news bulletins.
The issue resurfaced following concerns raised by Lamin Manneh, Chairman and Secretary General of the National Organization for Disabled and Orphans, who questioned why the sign language interpreters promised throughout the past year had not yet appeared on screen.
Manneh described the delay as unfair to people with disabilities across the country and urged the authorities to act as the New Year begins.
In response, the minister stated that the plan is to begin implementation this January. “We’re starting this January; the groundwork has already been completed.”
He disclosed that he personally held meetings with Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) management and the service providers tasked with delivering the sign language interpretation.
According to him, interpreters have already been to the studios to conduct behind the scenes simulations to test how the interpretation will work during live broadcasts. These tests, he said, were part of an agreed process to ensure the system functions properly before going live.
Dr. Ceesay revealed that December was used as a testing period, a phase he confirmed has been concluded. “The agreed plan was for the service to officially kick off in January, starting with the 8:00pm and 10:00pm news bulletins, before gradually being extended to other programmes.”
“This is not something you just come and do. It has to go through some processes, and the ministry wanted to ensure the service is done correctly and sustainably.”
While admitting that a final follow up is still pending, Dr. Ceesay maintained that January remains the target. “When I go back to the office, I need to make a follow up to see when we are starting. The intention has always been for the service to begin this month.”
The minister welcomed the continued pressure from the public and disability advocates, saying such reminders help keep the issue on the front banner.
He reiterated that access to information is a fundamental human right guaranteed by the Gambian Constitution.
“Our policy is to ensure every Gambian receives information, that information must be delivered in a language and manner that citizens can understand.”
