Sierra Leone Sign Language

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A language of Sierra Leone

ISO 639-3
sgx
User Population

39,000 (2021 DBS/DOOR/SIL). Estimated 23,000–46,000 deaf signers, assuming 0.3%–0.6% of total population. Another estimate: 200 deaf signers out of 3,000–5,000 total deaf (2008 WFD).

Location

Western Area: Freetown district, scattered.

Language Status

6a (Vigorous).

Classification
Sign language, Deaf community sign language
Language Use

Vigorous. Used by all.

Language Development

Agency: Salone Deaf Pipul Dem Association (Sierra Leone Association of the Deaf).

Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Sierra Leone Sign Language
Other Comments

3 primary schools for deaf children (oralist or manual signed codes), no secondary schools; other deaf children attend hearing schools. Few sign language interpreters, all volunteer (2008 WFD).