Deaf in Guinea-Bissau

Introduction / History

Every Deaf community takes on the characteristics of the country they are in. Just putting an interpreter in a church is not the answer, especially when the Deaf do not have any Bible background or knowledge. Some have estimated that Deaf people attending a church with interpretive sign language alone understand only two percent of the message. However, their understanding increases to 100 percent when the entire worship service including the sermon is in sign language.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Deaf in Guinea-Bissau face special challenges at home, in the classroom, and in the workplace. They tend to be overlooked because they require a unique way of communication.

Like Brazil, Guinea-Bissau is a Portuguese-speaking country. The Word of God is being brought to Guinea-Bissau in Sign Language. A Brazilian woman learned Brazilian Sign Language, and the Evangelical Church of Guinea-Bissau gave her a building to do Sign Language work. This is the first Sign Translation work in this country.

Hereditary problems, wars, and diseases have helped to cause Deafness in Guinea-Bissau.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Deaf in Guinea-Bissau are a little over half Muslim, but there is also a Christian minority among them.

What Are Their Needs?

As they are not together much, their Sign Language has not developed well, and their vocabulary is limited too. Guinea-Bissau Sign Language needs to be developed to its full potential so it can be used more effectively.

Prayer Points

Pray that the gospel work being done in Guinea-Bissau will bring the Deaf here to Jesus Christ.
Pray that Guinea-Bissau Sign Language will be completed.

Text Source:   Joshua Project