Travel should be open to everyone. In Uganda, two Deaf entrepreneurs are helping make that possible by transforming the safari experience for Deaf travellers.
Denis Ssebayiga and Simone Pabsch co-founded SS Sign Language Tourism in Kampala in late 2024. The company received its official Ugandan tour-operator licence in October 2025 and is recognised as Uganda’s first Deaf-led sign-language tourism company.
Safaris without communication barriers
The company provides wildlife and cultural experiences guided in Ugandan Sign Language and International Sign.
Its Deaf professional guides lead visitors on gorilla treks in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, chimpanzee tours in Kibale Forest and wildlife safaris across Uganda’s national parks.
The experiences are designed for both Deaf and hearing travellers. Guests do not need previous knowledge of sign language, allowing people with different backgrounds to experience Uganda together.
From Uganda to the world
Although the company is still young, it has already welcomed travellers from Uganda, Kenya, Germany, France and the United States.
On 22 September 2026, Condé Nast Traveler selected SS Sign Language Tourism as one of its 25 “Bright Ideas in Travel” winners. More than 200 projects from around the world were considered.
The publication described the company as East Africa’s first safari operator designed by and for Deaf travellers.
Creating opportunities through tourism
The founders now hope to train more Deaf guides, acquire a second safari vehicle and expand their accessible tours into Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda.
Their work shows how inclusion can also create business opportunities. Deaf travellers gain access to meaningful wildlife experiences, while Deaf professionals can develop careers in tourism and conservation.
SS Sign Language Tourism is not simply organising holidays. It is removing communication barriers, creating employment opportunities and presenting East Africa’s wildlife and culture to visitors from around the world.
Real People. Real Progress. Real Africa.
Sources: SS Sign Language Tourism and Condé Nast Traveler, 22 September 2026.
https://www.ss-signlanguagetourism.com
https://www.cntraveler.com/story/bright-ideas-in-travel-2026
Leave a Reply