06/06/2026
While contributing to the by , our CEO Sally Nduta highlighted the progress Africa has made in advancing while emphasizing the urgent actions needed to ensure meaningful inclusion of persons with disabilities in the digital transformation agenda.
She noted significant milestones across Kenya and the region, including the localization of AI-powered assistive technologies such as personalized voices for people with speech impairments, growing investment in African assistive technology innovation through initiatives such as the AT4D Momentus Fund, and increased support for locally developed inclusive technologies.
She also pointed to Kenya's efforts to expand last-mile internet connectivity, strengthen digital skills, establish ICT hubs, and implement community-based digital inclusion initiatives. Additionally, she welcomed the growing recognition of accessibility within policy and legislative frameworks, including the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, and the Kenya National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2035, both of which incorporate accessibility and inclusion considerations.
Despite this progress, Sally underscored the persistent barriers faced by persons with disabilities in accessing digital services. She cited the continued inaccessibility of many websites and digital platforms, including government services. While initiatives such as the Gava Mkononi (E-Citizen) mobile application have expanded access to government services, accessibility challenges continue to limit independent use by persons with diverse disabilities.
Addressing the role of institutions and technology providers, she stressed that the issue goes beyond listening to lived experiences. Instead, persons with disabilities must be meaningfully included at every stage of design, development, testing, and implementation to ensure products and services respond to real accessibility needs.
Looking ahead, Sally called on governments and technology providers to deepen their understanding of digital accessibility and move beyond viewing affordability alone as accessibility. She emphasized that accessibility must encompass usability for all persons with disabilities.
She also urged African policymakers to ensure that continental frameworks such as the Africa Digital Transformation Strategy and the Digital Compact explicitly address the unique accessibility needs of persons with disabilities rather than grouping them under broad categories such as marginalized or disadvantaged communities.