Who we are

About KSLIA

KSLIA is the professional association for sign language interpreters in Kenya, committed to professional standards, ethical practice, competence and continuous professional development.

A sign language interpreter leading a professional workshop
Illustrative image. Replace with approved KSLIA photography before launch.

The Association

A professional platform for interpreters

Established in 2000, KSLIA brings sign language interpreters together to promote professional growth, strengthen ethical and competent practice, and advance recognition and development of the profession in Kenya.

Through professional development, standards, advocacy, research, partnerships and knowledge sharing, the Association works to strengthen the quality and professionalism of sign language interpreting. KSLIA also promotes professional accountability through its Code of Conduct and related professional standards.

Our history

From a shared commitment to a professional association

A concise timeline based on the supplied website documentation.

2000

The beginning

Twenty Kenyan sign language interpreters came together after participating in a Deaf Education training programme organized by U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers. Their shared experiences highlighted the need for a dedicated professional platform.

2001

Formal registration

KSLIA was formally registered as a society on 22 October 2001 under the Societies Act, providing a foundation for its continued development.

Growth

Building a professional community

Conferences, training programmes and professional development activities created opportunities for interpreters to connect, learn and engage with emerging issues.

Standards

Promoting ethical practice

The Professional Code of Conduct established a framework for professional and ethical practice across interpreting settings.

Today

Advancing the profession

KSLIA continues to strengthen competence, ethical practice, professional recognition, research, advocacy and stakeholder engagement.

Vision

A professional, competent and ethical sign language profession in Kenya.

Mission

To uphold and enhance professional standards, ethics and competence in sign language interpreting.

Through continuous professional development, professional standards and ethical practice.

What guides us

Core values

01

Professionalism

High standards of competence, conduct and service.

02

Integrity

Ethical, honest, transparent and accountable practice.

03

Excellence

Continuous improvement and quality in professional practice.

04

Respect

Dignity, rights, language and perspectives of Deaf people and all stakeholders.

05

Inclusivity

Equitable participation, accessibility, diversity and equal opportunity.

06

Continuous learning

Lifelong learning, research, innovation and professional development.

Our objectives

Nine priorities for a stronger profession

1

Advance the Profession

Promote the development, recognition and advancement of sign language interpreting as a professional field in Kenya.

2

Professional Standards

Establish, promote and continuously improve professional standards and good practice.

3

Competence & CPD

Promote continuous learning and maintenance of professional knowledge, skills and competence.

4

Ethics & Professional Conduct

Promote ethical practice, integrity, accountability and adherence to standards of conduct.

5

Quality of Interpreting Services

Promote quality, consistency and good practice in the provision of interpreting services.

6

Professional Welfare

Promote fair, safe and enabling conditions of practice, recognition, remuneration and wellbeing.

7

Advocacy & Representation

Represent professional interests and advocate for policies and systems that support the profession.

8

Research, Knowledge & Innovation

Promote research, evidence-based practice, innovation, documentation and knowledge sharing.

9

Partnerships & Networks

Strengthen relationships with Deaf organizations, government, training institutions, employers and professional bodies.

Governance & leadership

Transparent information, ready for approved content

The proposed website structure includes dedicated areas for leadership profiles and governance documents. The source document does not yet supply names, biographies or files, so this prototype marks those items as content pending rather than inventing them.

Content required before launch

  • Approved leadership list and photographs
  • Roles, terms and short biographies
  • Constitution and governance policies
  • Document approval and publication dates

Build the profession with us

Join Kenya’s professional community of Kenyan Sign Language interpreters.

Kenyan Sign Language content

This website reserves space for KSL video versions of priority information. Approved recordings, captions and text transcripts should be added before public launch.

Read transcript

Welcome to the Kenyan Sign Language Interpreters Association website. Use the main navigation to learn about the Association, membership, professional development, standards, advocacy, resources and contact support.