Kinshasa – On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, the African Union City hosted a historic moment. Alongside the President of the Republic, Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, who was answering questions from journalists, stood the National Network of Sign Language Interpreters and Communicators (RIGS). The interpretation into sign language was carried out by Moïse Luzayisu, spokesperson of the network, allowing deaf and hard-of-hearing citizens to follow the presidential exchanges live.
Too often, major official communications remain inaccessible to part of the population. By inviting a sign language interpreter, the presidency sent a strong signal: information is a universal right. Throughout the press conference, Moïse Luzayisu faithfully conveyed the Head of State’s words, ensuring equal access to announcements and responses for deaf citizens.
Beyond the event itself, the challenge now is to make this practice permanent. Civil society actors hope that the presence of sign language interpreters will not remain a symbolic gesture, but will become a standard in all major public communications. This step forward paves the way for more inclusive governance, where every citizen, regardless of condition, can fully participate in democratic life.
Excerpt from the President’s Press Briefing
A committed figure in the field of sign language interpretation in the DRC, Moïse Luzayisu is recognized for his expertise and activism in favor of accessibility. As spokesperson of RIGS, he embodies the new generation of interpreters who defend sign language as a tool of citizenship and culture. His presence alongside the Head of State illustrates the growing institutional recognition of interpreters’ role in building an inclusive society.
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