Modjadji Matsapola
Imagine
waking up in a world devoid of alarm clocks, music, and voices, only surrounded
by the blurred sounds of cars, airplanes, and distant screams. This
encapsulates the experience of profound deafness, defined as the inability to
hear sounds below 90 decibels—equivalent to the roar of a passing motorcycle or
lawnmower. Severe hearing loss, which ranges from 71 to 90 decibels,
corresponds to the sound level of an alarm clock (American
Speech-Language-Hearing Association, ASHA).
According
to the Centre of Deaf Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS),
deafness is one of the most prevalent disabilities in South Africa, affecting
over four million people. Of these, 300,000 to 400,000 are profoundly deaf and
use South African Sign Language (SASL) as their first language. A 2011 census
revealed that only 234,655 South Africans use sign language as their primary
language. These statistics highlight the expanding deaf community in South
Africa and the urgent need for greater awareness, not only in terms of
communication but also in ensuring their safety in public spaces and
workplaces.
In
Gauteng, the Provincial Government, through its Department of Community Safety,
has implemented several initiatives aimed at ensuring that individuals with
disabilities, including those who are deaf or living with albinism, are
safeguarded from discrimination, abuse, and violence. The Gauteng Provincial
Government’s commitment to safety extends beyond law enforcement—it involves
empowering communities to play an active role in protecting vulnerable groups.
Nthabeleng,
a young woman who was born deaf, shared her experience of feeling supported by
her family but often pitied by society. She noted that while there are laws
protecting people with disabilities, deaf individuals still face exclusion and
are often overlooked in public safety campaigns. “I worry about my safety when
I’m outside because emergency alerts and warnings are not always accessible to
deaf people,” she explained. Nthabeleng’s concerns highlight the critical need
for inclusive safety measures that consider the unique challenges faced by deaf
individuals.
Miss
Albinism 2023, Sasekani Masingi, discussed the pervasive myths surrounding
albinism that often lead to violence, particularly in rural areas. These
harmful stereotypes can escalate into threats to personal safety. Sasekani
acknowledged that although awareness has improved, safety remains a pressing
concern. “People with albinism are still at risk of abductions and attacks
because of dangerous beliefs. The government must continue educating
communities, but we also need protection from law enforcement,” she said.
Sasekani
is not alone in her fears. The Gauteng Department of Community Safety has
launched public awareness campaigns and partnered with the South African Police
Service (SAPS) to prioritise the safety of individuals with disabilities. One
such initiative is the Gauteng Provincial Safety Plan, which includes
strategies to improve the visibility of law enforcement in areas where people
with disabilities are most vulnerable, particularly in townships and rural
communities.
The
Gauteng Provincial Government has recognised that disability rights are human
rights, and ensuring the safety of individuals with disabilities is a key
priority. The provincial 10 Point Safety Plan includes specific actions to
safeguard people with albinism and the deaf community from harm. This plan
focuses on:
1. Increased
Community Policing – Community policing forums (CPFs) are being trained to
identify and respond to the unique safety needs of people with disabilities.
These forums serve as a bridge between law enforcement and the community,
ensuring that issues affecting the deaf and people with albinism are promptly
addressed.
 2. Awareness Campaigns – Public safety
campaigns, such as those held during National Albinism Awareness Month, educate
communities about the dangers of discrimination and violence against people
with disabilities. These campaigns focus on debunking myths and encouraging
communities to report any acts of violence or discrimination.
3. Emergency
Services Adaptation – The Department of Community Safety is working to ensure
that emergency services are accessible to all. This includes introducing
text-based alert systems for the deaf community and working with hospitals to
provide adequate care for people with albinism, especially those at risk of
skin cancer due to sun exposure.
4. Collaboration
with Civil Society – The provincial government has partnered with
non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and disability rights groups to create
safe spaces for individuals with disabilities. These partnerships aim to build
support networks that enhance the safety and well-being of people with albinism
and those who are deaf.
While
the government plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and safety of
individuals with disabilities, communities must also take responsibility.
“Nothing about us without us” is a mantra often echoed by individuals with
disabilities, reminding society that their protection requires collective
action.
Mr.
Dooka, a former principal who lives with albinism, emphasised the importance of
community understanding. “I feel accepted in my community, but there are still
areas where I feel unsafe because people believe harmful myths about albinism.
Communities must stand together to protect us from discrimination and
violence,” he urged. 
The
Gauteng Department of Community Safety calls on all citizens to be vigilant and
report any forms of abuse or violence against people with disabilities.
Community members are encouraged to join local safety initiatives and work with
law enforcement to create inclusive, safe environments for everyone.
As we
reflect on the progress made since the dawn of democracy in 1994, it is clear
that while there have been positive changes, much work remains. The safety and inclusion
of people with disabilities, including those living with albinism and the deaf
community, must remain at the forefront of provincial and national priorities.
Through continued government action and active community involvement, Gauteng
can become a province where all individuals, regardless of ability, live
without fear and in full inclusion.