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MOGADISHU, 8 November 2026 – For the first time, Somalia has officially launched the Somali Sign Language Dictionary at a ceremony organised by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education.
The event, held on Sunday, was attended by government officials and representatives of the Somali deaf community.
The dictionary is intended to document, standardise and develop Somali Sign Language vocabulary, creating a shared communication system that can help deaf people and the wider community understand one another.
Its importance goes beyond improving communication. It also offers an opportunity to advance education and improve access to public services.
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The language is expected to be introduced in educational institutions to help deaf children access better learning opportunities. Meanwhile, training teachers and expanding the use of sign language are among the key steps needed to ensure that the dictionary has a meaningful and lasting impact.
The Secretary-General of the Somali Deaf Association, Muuse Kadle, described the launch as a historic occasion, saying that the deaf community had long experienced isolation due to communication barriers.
"Today, I am overwhelmed with joy. We feel that we have finally emerged from the isolation that the Somali deaf community has experienced," he said.
Language is not limited to spoken words; it is also a means through which people understand one another, express themselves and share ideas. The launch of this dictionary marks a new chapter in recognising and promoting the rights of Somalia's deaf community. However, its long-term success will depend on how widely sign language is adopted in education and public services.