Sign language interpreter Abidjan supports deaf community daily needs
An estimated 75,000 people with hearing loss live in Ivory Coast. In Abidjan, psychologist and interpreter Israël Mansaré translates sign language for deaf residents during everyday tasks such as buying food, attending school and obtaining medication. He works with clients including carpenter Gildas Zamble and stresses that sign language has full vocabulary and grammar. The country needs many more interpreters to reduce isolation in public services.
September 15, 2026
2 min read
Source: Lesedi Times
How does an interpreter assist deaf residents in Abidjan?
Israël Mansaré provides sign language interpretation in Abidjan for people who cannot hear or speak. He accompanies clients to pharmacies, markets and schools where verbal communication is required. One client, carpenter Gildas Zamble, relies on Mansaré to express needs that would otherwise remain unspoken. Mansaré trained first as a psychologist before focusing on interpretation work.
Why is sign language access limited in Ivory Coast?
Only a small number of trained interpreters work in the country. Mansaré notes that hundreds more are required to meet demand. Many deaf citizens avoid medical and administrative offices because staff do not understand sign language. This gap leaves routine requests for medicine or documents unaddressed.
What challenges remain for public services?
Deaf residents often skip government offices and clinics due to communication barriers. Staff in these sectors rarely know sign language, which leads to misunderstandings or refusals of service. Mansaré’s presence improves access for those he assists, yet the scale of need exceeds the current supply of interpreters.
Frequently asked questions
How many people with hearing loss live in Ivory Coast?
An estimated 75,000 people with hearing loss live in the country, according to the source material.
What training does Israël Mansaré have?
He works as both a psychologist and a sign language interpreter.
Who is one client mentioned?
Carpenter Gildas Zamble receives interpretation support from Mansaré in daily situations.
Does sign language have grammar and vocabulary?
Yes, the source states that sign language is a developed language with vocabulary, grammar and spelling.
Why do some deaf citizens avoid public offices?
They face incomprehension from staff in medical and administrative roles who do not use sign language.