Ahead of the official launch of the Kenya AI for Disability Project, members of the media were invited to a special media tour at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) in Kasarani on Friday, bringing together government leaders, innovators and ecosystem partners committed to using technology to advance disability inclusion in Kenya.
The tour spotlighted the growing role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in expanding opportunities for persons with disabilities, while showcasing practical innovations designed to address barriers to employment, entrepreneurship and participation in the digital economy.
Journalists were given behind-the-scenes access to one of Kenya’s leading institutions supporting learners and persons with disabilities. The visit included guided tours of key facilities, demonstrations of assistive technologies, and interactions with local innovators developing inclusive digital solutions.
The event came at a critical time for Kenya’s inclusion agenda, with only 1% of adults with disabilities currently employed, highlighting the urgent need for scalable interventions that create access to jobs and economic opportunity.
Speaking during the tour, a representative from the Ministry of Information, Communications & the Digital Economy said the project reflects Kenya’s commitment to ensuring emerging technologies benefit every citizen.
“Artificial Intelligence must be inclusive by design. This initiative demonstrates how Kenya can harness innovation to unlock opportunity, dignity and economic participation for persons with disabilities.”
A representative from the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) said the partnership would help bridge long-standing accessibility and skills gaps.
“For many learners and young people with disabilities, access to adaptive tools and digital skills can be life-changing. This project is an important step toward equal opportunity.”
Representatives from Qhala, one of the project partners, emphasized the need for practical, locally relevant AI solutions.
“We believe AI should solve real human challenges. Through this partnership, we are focused on building solutions that are responsible, accessible and impactful for Kenyan communities.”
Adam Lane, Policy and Partnerships Manager at Huawei reaffirmed the company’s commitment to inclusive digital transformation.
“Technology has the power to leave no one behind when partnerships are strong and innovation is purposeful. We are proud to support initiatives that use ICT to empower persons with disabilities through skills, connectivity and opportunity.”
The media tour also highlighted compelling human-interest stories, featuring innovators developing assistive solutions and young beneficiaries whose lives stand to be transformed through digital inclusion.
Attendees included officials from the Ministry of Information, Communications & the Digital Economy, Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE), Konza Technopolis, National Council for Persons with Disabilities, Kenya National Innovation Agency, as well as representatives from Qhala, Assistive Technologies for Disability Trust (AT4D) and Huawei.
The official launch of the Kenya AI for Disability Project will be launched during the Connected Africa Summit, taking place next week from 27th – 30th April at The Edge Convention Center.
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