As we mark the third anniversary of SA Sign Language (SASL) being recognised as the country’s 12th official language on Sunday, the milestone carries deep personal significance for Eastern Cape interpreter Asanda Katshwa, pictured right.
Born in Mdantsane to deaf parents Ziwele Maqethuka and Sindiswa Katshwa, SASL was not something Katshwa learnt — it was the language of her home and identity.
“Personally, it is quite heavy,” Katshwa told the Go! on Wednesday.
“SASL was officialised a month after my deaf father passed away, meaning he lived all his 78 years without seeing his language recognised.”
She believes the recognition has strengthened the fight for equal access and dignity.
“Legalising SASL means compelling public spaces to be accessible for deaf people, making them feel like respectable members of society.”
This year marks 25 years since Katshwa began her career, one that has helped transform interpreting standards and champion the rights of the deaf community.
In 2003, she became the first young black South African woman to be accredited as a SASL interpreter by the SA Translators’ Institute, a groundbreaking achievement that paved the way for others.
“It made me who I am,” she said.
“Everything I do, both professionally and personally, is informed by growing up in a deaf household.
“I have a better appreciation of SASL nuances and deaf culture because I was an integral part of the community.”
Throughout her career, she has seen encouraging signs of change.
“My deaf parents were finally able to sit and follow current affairs without depending on me to keep them informed.
“Seeing government departments make an effort by hiring SASL interpreters and seeing the dreams of deaf community members slowly coming to life have been defining moments.”
Through her company, Alsadeco, and the DEAR Centre, Katshwa has worked with government departments to improve accessibility by training frontline staff in SASL and advocating for language rights.
“We made enough noise to ensure departments like health, education and Salga [SA Local Government Association] trained frontline staff in SASL,” she said.
“The Buffalo City Metro now ensures access through interpreters in most public awareness programmes.”
At the height of her career, Katshwa deliberately stepped away from interpreting full-time to create opportunities for younger professionals.
“We had trained strong interpreters who respected deaf people and the profession’s code of ethics. It felt like the right time to create space for young interpreters to thrive.”
But her return has been prompted by concern over declining professional standards.
“I’ve seen a steady decline. The use of the language has been watered down by unqualified and untrained interpreters. Anyone who can move their hands claims to know how to sign.”
She believes regulation, mentorship and proper training are essential to protecting both interpreters and the deaf community.
“There is still a lack of quality and reliable interpreting services, as well as a shortage of qualified interpreters.
“Government often treats SASL access as an afterthought, while budget constraints continue to limit services.”
She hopes to help establish structures that regulate the profession, provide training and strengthen mentorship.
