KICTANet’s Unique Collaboration with PWDs to Bridge Digital Barriers
Featured Updated: 30 September 2025 15:23 EAT
How do we ensure technology truly serves everyone? This is the critical question driving the work of the Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet), the country's leading think tank on ICT policy. KICTANet is taking a direct, hands-on approach to guarantee full digital inclusion for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Appearing on Signs TV's Breakfast Show, KICTANet Communication Officer David Indeje outlined the organization's dynamic strategy, which he describes as acting as a "catalyst for reform" in the technology sector.
According to Indeje, KICTANet’s model for addressing the digital accessibility challenge is through genuine partnership, which is a direct collaboration with PWDs themselves, and working alongside the companies and innovators who are creating the solutions.
This approach, he says, ensures that policies are not theoretical but are grounded in the real-world experiences of the community.
He further stated that technologies like the assistALL app, for example, are currently being used to help KICTANet understand exactly how PWDs can be seamlessly included in day-to-day digital activities.
Indeje noted that the major dilemma facing their program is how to keep essential digital services alive and accessible after initial funding or pilot projects end. Because assistive technologies and accessible services can often be costly, the affordability factor poses a risk of creating a new digital divide, leaving PWDs without access once short-term programs run out.
KICTANet is committed to pushing for policies that not only mandate inclusion but also address the long-term financial viability of accessible technology, ensuring PWDs can remain fully connected for years to come.
This discussion is available now on the Signs TV Kenya channels across YouTube https://youtu.be/dOsO0rBluFA and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19xgbMGVJr/.
Tags: British High Commission KICTANet Signstvkenya Editor's Pick
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Selestine Nyongesa
Experienced and versatile writer, dedicated to using my exceptional writing and editing skills to inform and advocate. My work focuses on educating and entertaining readers on a range of topics, with a particular expertise in matters of disability.