Introduction
Universal access to the internet and meaningful connectivity are fundamental rights in the digital age. Yet, many persons with disabilities across Africa remain marginalised from the benefits of digital inclusion. This session, guided by KICTANet’s recent research on government websites’ accessibility and the role of community networks in Kenya, will focus on ensuring that persons with disabilities have equitable access to the internet and digital services. This panel discussion will also incorporate insights on the state of access to information for persons with disabilities in Uganda and Ethiopia.
Background and Context
Despite the global drive for digital inclusion, persons with disabilities continue to face significant barriers to meaningful connectivity. Two critical studies from KICTANet provide insight into these challenges:
- Accessibility of Kenya Government Websites to Persons with Disabilities (2023): This study highlights that while 71.1% of government websites meet moderate accessibility standards, many essential services remain inaccessible to persons with disabilities due to poor implementation of web accessibility guidelines.
- Best Practices for Digital Inclusion of People with Disabilities in Kenyan Community Networks (2024): Community networks, especially in rural areas, offer a promising solution to bridge the digital divide for persons with disabilities, yet they face challenges such as limited resources, lack of assistive technologies, and infrastructure constraints.
Both studies underscore the need for inclusive policies, accessible digital platforms, and community-driven initiatives to ensure universal access to the Internet for persons with disabilities.
Key Themes of the Session
- Understanding Universal Access for Persons with Disabilities: Significant barriers such as inaccessible websites, lack of assistive technologies, and high internet costs prevent people with disabilities from accessing digital services. This challenge is particularly acute in rural areas, where community networks, though vital, often lack the necessary infrastructure and awareness to support people with disabilities effectively.
- Policy and Regulatory Gaps: Despite policies like Kenya’s National ICT Policy (2019) and global commitments under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), enforcement and implementation remain weak. This results in a gap between policy intent and the practical delivery of digital services to persons with disabilities.
- Scalable Solutions and Collaboration: Community networks can drive universal connectivity in underserved areas, but they need investment in assistive technologies, affordable internet, and disability-friendly devices. Public-private partnerships and funding mechanisms like the Universal Service Fund (USF) are crucial in fostering inclusive, sustainable digital access for persons with disabilities.
Session Objectives
- Analyse the current challenges preventing persons with disabilities from enjoying universal access to the internet and digital services.
- Identify existing policy shortcomings that limit digital inclusion for persons with disabilities, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
- Present scalable solutions for achieving universal access to digital services that meet the specific needs of persons with disabilities, ensuring equitable participation.
- Explore ways to enhance cooperation between governments, private sector entities, and community networks to create sustainable models of connectivity.
Expected Outcomes
The session will highlight practical solutions, policies, and collaborative strategies for enhancing connectivity, particularly in underserved rural areas with the most pronounced digital divide.
