Social Economic Barriers to Information Communication Technology (ICT) Access for Persons with Disabilities in Africa: Literature Review

Abstract

The 2006 United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, (PWDs) enacted in May 2008, has been instrumental in championing the rights of people with disabilities. A significant aspect of the Convention is information communication technology (ICT) accessibility. Article 9 specifically calls for signatories to “promote access for persons with disabilities to new ICTs and systems, including the Internet” and to “promote the design, development, production, and supply of available ICTs and systems at a premature stage, so that these technologies and systems become accessible at an affordable price. ICT access is important for social economic incorporation of (PWDs) in Africa, with computer technology and the Internet significantly enhancing their independence. A report from the High-Level Meeting on Disability and Development at the United Nations in September 2013 underscores the importance of ICTs for the inclusion of PWDs. While inaccessible ICT designs can create barriers, innovative technologies offer unprecedented support: text-to-speech technology enables millions to access digital versions of otherwise inaccessible print documents, and new tools like GPS, image recognition, near-field communications, and Internet connectivity provide solutions for independent living. However, several socioeconomic barriers impede access to these technologies, exacerbating existing inequalities and limiting participation in the digital age. This article explores the multifaceted challenges PWDs face in accessing ICT in Africa, emphasizing the intersections of disability with poverty, education, infrastructure, and policy. It investigates the financial constraints that make assistive technologies and Internet services unaffordable, the educational barriers affecting digital literacy among PWDs, and infrastructural challenges such as inadequate ICT facilities and the lack of accessibility features in existing technologies. The article also addresses policy and regulatory gaps that fail to prioritize the needs of PWDs in national ICT strategies. By identifying these barriers, the article advocates for inclusive policies and targeted interventions to enhance ICT accessibility for PWDs in Africa. The discussion is informed by a review of relevant literature and data from various African countries. Ultimately, the article highlights the necessity of implementing policies related to ICT access and a collaborative approach involving governments, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations to bridge the digital divide and promote the social and economic empowerment of PWDs.