DeafBlind South Africa (DBSA) is dedicated to empowering DeafBlind individuals, ensuring they are recognized with dignity, equal rights and opportunities. Our vision is to create a barrier-free society that allows persons with DeafBlindness to actively participate in national, provincial and regional development.
The Role of Government Agencies
The South African government, through various agencies, is committed to promoting disability inclusion. The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, along with the Department of Social Development, plays a pivotal role in formulating policies and programmes that support persons with disabilities. However, challenges in policy implementation often hinder the full realization of these initiatives.
National Disability Rights Framework
South Africa’s commitment to disability rights is enshrined in its Constitution, which prohibits unfair discrimination on the basis of disability. The country is also a signatory to international agreements such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) of 2006, ratified in 2007, aiming to promote and protect the full enjoyment of human rights by persons with disabilities.
Advocacy Strategies for Policy Change
DBSA actively engages with policymakers to influence legislation and policies that affect the DeafBlind community. By collaborating with other disability organizations and stakeholders, we strive to strengthen the voices of DeafBlind individuals in legislative processes, ensuring their needs and rights are adequately represented.
Getting Assistance
For assistance, inquiries, or referrals, please reach out to us in the following order:
1. Provincial Committees
We encourage the DeafBlind community, families, friends and caregivers to contact our provincial committee members. Currently, established committees are in the Western Cape, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Kwa-Zulu Natal and Eastern Cape. Efforts are underway to establish committees in all nine provinces.
For contact details, please reach out to the National Office of DeafBlind South Africa.
2. National Office of DeafBlind South Africa
For assistance, inquiries, or referrals, contact Mrs. Marlizé van Vuuren, Administration Official.
Office Cell Number: +27 (0) 82 688 5344
(Monday to Friday, office hours)
Physical Address: 17a Napier Street, Worcester, 6850
Postal Address: Suite 80, Private Bag X3105, Worcester, 6849
Email Address: info@DeafBlindsa.co.za
Website: www.DeafBlindsa.co.za
3. Department of Social Development
DBSA is a registered non-profit and public benefit organization working closely with the Department of Social Development at national and provincial levels. For local assistance or intervention, contact your nearest local or regional social worker for referrals to provincial offices of the department.
DBSA remains committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of the DeafBlind community in South Africa. Through continuous collaboration with government agencies, other organizations and the community, we aim to create an inclusive society where DeafBlind individuals can thrive.