Imagine a world where the vibrant colours of a sunset fade into obscurity and the melodies of a morning chorus are replaced by silence. This is the reality for individuals living with DeafBlindness—a unique and complex disability arising from the combination of vision and hearing impairments. In South Africa, the challenges faced by this community have historically been overlooked, leading to significant gaps in support and representation.
The Silent Struggle
For years, DeafBlind individuals in South Africa navigated a society unprepared to meet their distinct needs. Lumped into categories serving either the blind or the deaf, their specific challenges remained unaddressed, resulting in:
- A glaring absence of statistical data on DeafBlind individuals.
- Marginalization from active participation in societal, economic, and political arenas.
- Limited access to tailored assistive devices essential for daily living.
- A dearth of specialized social services and educational opportunities.
A Beacon of Hope: The Birth of DBSA
In response to these pressing issues, a dedicated group of advocates and affected individuals united on July 26, 1996, at Cape Town International Airport, giving rise to DeafBlind South Africa (DBSA). As one of the nation’s youngest disability-focused organizations, DBSA emerged with a clear mission: to serve as the sole entity exclusively championing the rights and needs of the DeafBlind community.
Bridging Local and Global Efforts
Recognizing that the challenges of DeafBlindness transcend national borders, DBSA aligned itself with international bodies to amplify its impact:
World Federation of the DeafBlind (WFDB): Established in 2001, the WFDB is a global advocacy organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for DeafBlind individuals. With 75 member organizations across 62 countries, it serves as a platform for exchanging knowledge and fostering international solidarity.
African Federation of the DeafBlind (AFDB): Founded in 2009 in Kampala, Uganda, the AFDB strives to enhance the socio-economic conditions of DeafBlind individuals across Africa. It advocates for human rights, supports access to education and rehabilitation services and collaborates with various stakeholders to promote inclusivity.
Through these collaborations, DBSA not only addresses local challenges but also contributes to a global movement advocating for the rights and recognition of DeafBlind individuals.