Deaf couple celebrates love in joyful Ruiru wedding

The event stood out for its inclusivity and remarkable organisation, with the majority of participants, including the best man, bridesmaids, and many attendees, also being members of the deaf community. 

This added a special layer of unity and pride to the occasion.

To ensure the ceremony was accessible to all, over five sign language interpreters, including a Catholic nun, facilitated seamless communication. 

The interpreters also worked alongside the choir, enabling the deaf guests to participate in singing through sign language, creating a harmonious blend of sound and gesture.

One of the most striking moments of the day came during the exchange of vows and rings. 

Traditionally, the groom holds the ring while speaking to the bride, but this posed a challenge due to the nature of sign language, where hands are essential for communication. 

In an inspiring show of adaptability, the priest allowed the best man to hold the ring while Aggrey signed his heartfelt vows to Flavian, overcoming the logistical hurdle with grace and creativity.

Despite the challenges, the couple’s love shone brightly as they officially became husband and wife, leaving the audience moved by their determination and devotion.

The event also highlighted broader issues surrounding accessibility for the deaf community. Charles Karanja and Pius Murichu, members of the church committee who spearheaded the wedding preparations, candidly acknowledged the communication challenges they encountered along the way. 

Karanja called for the inclusion of sign language lessons in Kenya’s national curriculum, emphasizing the importance of equipping future generations with skills to foster inclusivity and understanding.

The wedding of Flavian and Aggrey was not just a celebration of love but also a powerful statement on the beauty of diversity and the strength of community.