NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 3 – The Kenya Bankers Association Thursday launched the first Kenyan sign language online platform which is aimed at supporting bank employees to learn basic sign language, facilitating better communication with Deaf bank clients.
The launch comes barely two months after KBA signed a deal with Financial Sector Deepening Trust (FSD Kenya) to finance the development of the app dubbed eLimu by software engineering firm Deaf eLimu Plus.
The App will feature at least one hundred words and ten phrases drawn from common bank-environment vocabulary, including video demonstrations on how to sign the words in Kenya Sign Language (KSL.)
KBA chief executive Habil Olaka, who spoke during the launch noted that the innovation will enhance their experience of people with disabilities whom he noted are among the most underserved population across the banking sector.
“The App will play a huge role in building capacity among bank staff on Kenyan Sign Language, facilitating enhanced interactions among bank staff and the Deaf community,’’ he said.
Central Bank Governor, who officiated the launch, lauded the move saying it is one of the commitments banks had made through the adoption of the Banking Sector Charter.
‘It is our responsibility to ensure that we continually put people’s needs at the core of the banking business. It is within our reach to break accessibility barriers and bring all People with Disabilities to the formal financial system,” Njoroge said.
KEPSA CEO, Carole Kariuki, on her part challenged other private sector players to institute similar applications to facilitate smooth service delivery for people living with disabilities.
Findings from the Banking Industry Persons With Disabilities Accessibility pilot study conducted by KBA and FSD Kenya in 2020 indicated that Deaf customers were the least satisfied group of bank clients, with their main area of dissatisfaction being communication.
Bank staff also expressed dissatisfaction with communication while serving Deaf customers.
