Kenya Expands Digital Access for PWDs
At the 6th Inclusive Africa Conference in Nairobi, Kenya committed to advancing digital access for PWDs. Cabinet Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, announced that over 33,000 government services on the eCitizen platform will be made accessible to persons with disabilities.
In addition, the government plans to train at least 20 million Kenyans in digital skills by 2027. This ambitious program aims to include all citizens—especially marginalized groups—in the country’s digital transformation.
Inclusive Public Services and Policy
To ensure sustainable accessibility, the Ministry of ICT is collaborating with tech companies, developers, and organizations such as inABLE. Together, they are implementing Kenya’s Accessibility Standard for Digital Products, which promotes inclusive design from the outset.
Joseph Motari, Principal Secretary for Social Services, highlighted the importance of combining assistive technologies with accessible infrastructure. This approach, he explained, ensures that persons with disabilities can contribute meaningfully to national development.
Accessibility as a Design Principle
inABLE founder Irene Mbari-Kirika emphasized that accessibility must be part of a product’s DNA—not added as an afterthought. The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has already issued national guidelines to align local products with global accessibility standards.
A More Inclusive Future and Digital Access for PWDs
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura stressed Kenya’s leadership in disability inclusion. He also announced the upcoming Inclusive Communications Program, which will deliver public information in formats such as sign language and braille.
Ultimately, Kenya’s focus on digital access for PWDs signals more than compliance—it reflects a national vision of equity. Through proactive design, training, and inclusive policies, the country is building a digital future that benefits everyone.
