Vodacom becomes first South African organisation to embed sign language in the workplace

Groundbreaking initiative in partnership with the National Institute for the Deaf sets a new standard for disability inclusion

Vodacom South Africa has achieved a historic milestone in workplace inclusion, becoming the first organisation in the country to embed South African Sign Language (SASL) in the workplace. This pioneering initiative, launched in partnership with the National Institute for the Deaf (NID), reflects Vodacom's purpose: to connect everyone to a better future.

"Recognised as South Africa's 12th official language in 2023, SASL is now being integrated across Vodacom's digital platforms, employee training programmes, and everyday business operations. The initiative will roll out in phases from January 2026."

"At Vodacom, inclusion is a serious commitment," said Njabulo Mashigo, Director: Human Resources, Vodacom South Africa. "This initiative is about fostering a sense of belonging. By embedding SASL into our digital DNA, we're ensuring Deaf talent are seen, heard, and valued in every aspect of our workplace."

From September to October, Vodacom enabled the SASL Font across Microsoft 365 and from January will integrate a dedicated SASL dictionary into the company's Employee Engage app, making it easier for employees to learn, reference, and use SASL in daily interactions.

Additionally in January 2026 Vodacom is launching a 12-module SASL learning path across the organisation, developed in collaboration with Deaf educators and NID. The initiative is championed by Vodacom's leadership, including Vodacom South Africa CEO, Sitho Mdlalose, demonstrating the company's commitment to embedding DEIB at the highest levels.

"This initiative sits at the heart of our purpose," continued Mashigo. "We're creating a workplace where diversity and lived experience are celebrated. The Deaf community is not on the margins, they are integral to our workforce, our customer base, and our future."

A Challenge to Corporate South Africa

Vodacom is issuing a challenge to organisations across all industries and sectors to follow suit.

"Embedding SASL is not just the right thing to do; it's a strategic imperative in a country where inclusion must be intersectional and intentional," said Mashigo. "I invite my peers across industries to partner with NID, invest in SASL training, and make their workplaces truly inclusive. Let's move beyond compliance and build cultures of belonging."

Lynette Victor, Representative at the National Institute for the Deaf (NID), said, "Vodacom’s commitment represents a transformative moment for the Deaf community. This partnership demonstrates what is possible when organisations move beyond tokenism to create genuine linguistic access and cultural recognition."

The initiative aligns with Vodacom's broader DEIB strategy and supports compliance with the Skills Development Act and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).