Chronicle Editor
Uzile Mkwananzi, Sunday News Reporter
THE Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) is collaborating with representative organisations of people with hearing impairments to come up with a holistic strategy that will leverage on new technologies to develop a more effective and tailor made approach to road safety.
The objective is to ensure that they are not left out as well as minimise the risk they face in navigating traffic. TSCZ Managing Director Mr Munesu Munodawafa told Sunday News in an interview that it was part of their aim to have the unique group needs catered for.
“Road safety messages for hearing impaired people are important because they face unique challenges when it comes to navigating traffic and road environments. Some motivations for creating specific road safety messages for the hearing impaired include increased awareness.
Tailoring road safety messages for the hearing impaired can help reduce the specific risks and challenges they encounter on the road.
By addressing the specific needs of the hearing impaired, we will be promoting inclusivity and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their hearing abilities have access to important safety information,” said Mr Munodawafa.
He said road safety education for the hearing impaired played a key role in risk reduction as customized road safety messages could help mitigate the higher risks faced by the hearing impaired in traffic situations, ultimately contributing to a safer road environment for everyone.
“Previously, TSCZ has been addressing the needs of hearing impaired individuals through various methods, such as providing written materials, using visual cues and signals, and offering educational programmes tailored to their specific challenges.
“However, there has been increasing recognition of the need for more comprehensive and inclusive approaches to address the safety of the hearing impaired on the road.
“Moving forward, advancements in technology and communication have the potential to significantly improve how road safety organisations interact with the hearing impaired.
“For example, the use of mobile applications and wearable devices can provide real-time alerts and warnings about potential hazards, while also offering navigation assistance specifically designed for individuals with hearing impairments,” he said.
Additionally, he added, there had been an increasing focus on inclusive design in urban planning and transportation infrastructure aimed at creating environments that accommodate the needs of all individuals, including those with hearing impairments. He said they would be putting up classes to help educate the targeted group if need be.
Online Reporter