Kenya has launched a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Disability Project in partnership with the global technology company Huawei and several local institutions, aimed at improving digital inclusion for persons with disabilities.
The initiative was unveiled during the Connected Africa Summit 2026 in Nairobi and brings together government agencies, private-sector players, and disability advocacy organisations to develop AI-powered solutions to address accessibility challenges in education, employment, and public services.
The project is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE), InABLE, Qhala, Assistive Technologies for Disability Trust (AT4D), and Huawei under its Tech4All programme.
Officials say the initiative is intended to ensure that persons with disabilities are fully included in Kenya’s digital transformation agenda, which is increasingly driven by artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
“The initiative aims to ensure that persons with disabilities are placed at the centre of efforts to spur growth in the digital economy,” an official statement noted.
Government representatives said the project will support the development of assistive technologies and accessible digital platforms designed to improve access to information and services for persons with disabilities.
“The programme will design and deploy assistive technologies to ensure persons with disabilities benefit from the digital transformation agenda,” said Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy William Kabogo Gitau.
Huawei said its involvement aligns with its global commitment to inclusive innovation under the Tech4All initiative, which focuses on expanding access to digital technologies for underserved communities.
“Technology should serve humanity regardless of physical or mental abilities,” said Huawei’s Director of Policy and Partnerships in Kenya, Adam Lane.
The project is expected to produce AI-driven tools, including speech recognition systems, accessibility-enhancing software, and other assistive technologies tailored to local needs.
Stakeholders said the collaboration will combine expertise in policy, disability inclusion, and technology development to ensure that solutions are practical and scalable.
“The initiative will leverage co-creation and innovation to secure an inclusive digital future,” a project statement added.
Officials described the partnership as part of Kenya’s broader push to ensure equitable access to digital services and reduce barriers that have historically excluded persons with disabilities from fully participating in the digital economy.
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The project is expected to serve as a model for inclusive technology development across the region as African countries continue to expand AI adoption in public service delivery.
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