About Signova

Who We Are

Signova is a Rwandan-born innovation initiative developing advanced sign language recognition and learning technologies to bridge communication gaps between deaf and hearing communities. Founded by engineers, accessibility advocates, and AI specialists, we combine electronics, telecommunications, and computer vision to make communication inclusive, secure, and real-time.

While our ultimate vision spans multiple global sign languages, our current focus is delivering accurate, privacy-conscious Rwandan Sign Language (RSL) translation and education—empowering communities and creating equal access to information.

Our Technology Focus

• Core Development: Real-time RSL gesture recognition powered by deep learning and computer vision.
• Language Expansion: Progressive addition of African and international sign languages.
• Learning System: Interactive, accessible tools for sign language learning in schools, communities, and online.
• Cybersecurity Integration: End-to-end encryption and on-device AI processing to ensure user privacy and safety.

Current Language Support

• ✅ Rwandan Sign Language (RSL): Full camera-based translation to text and speech.
• ✅ English: Text-to-sign conversion for inclusive communication.
• ✅ Learning Materials: Structured lessons, sign dictionaries, and practice tools for both RSL and international sign languages.

Key Features

Community & Partnerships

We proudly collaborate with:

• Rwanda National Union of the Deaf (RNUD)
• Deaf-inclusive schools across Rwanda
• Local RSL interpreters, linguists, and accessibility advocates
• International sign language research networks

Our Roadmap

Get Involved

We welcome:

• RSL speakers to refine translations
• Educators to design learning materials
• Tech partners to advance AI & accessibility features
• Volunteers to test and give feedback

Our Mission

Signova exists to break down communication barriers through engineering innovation and ethical AI. We believe language accessibility is a basic human right—not a privilege—and are committed to building tools that make communication inclusive for everyone, everywhere.

Our Team

Signova unites:

• Deaf community advocates and ASL/RSL linguists
• AI & computer vision engineers
• Accessibility design specialists
• UX researchers with cultural expertise

30% of our team are deaf or hard-of-hearing, ensuring the technology serves the community authentically.

Our Technology

We use:

• Neural networks trained on diverse sign datasets
• Gesture recognition algorithms optimized for African sign languages
• Privacy-first design with local device processing
• Continuous learning from community feedback

Partners & Recognition

• National Association of the Deaf
• Gallaudet University Research Institute
• Accessibility Tech Foundation
• 2024 MIT Inclusive Innovation Award recipient

Privacy & Security

We follow strict data security practices, including end-to-end encryption, regular security audits, and minimal data retention. All AI processing for translation happens locally on your device, ensuring no raw video data is stored or shared.

Contact Us