New report reveals major gaps and opportunities in assistive technology across Africa

A groundbreaking report released during the 7th Inclusive Africa Conference (IAC2026) in Nairobi revealed that millions of Africans with disabilities continue to face severe barriers in accessing assistive technology (AT), while also highlighting untapped opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

More than 180 scientific studies and over 330 grey-literature documents spanning the continent’s 54 countries were reviewed by researchers.

The report detailed harsh realities across the continent. While an estimated 200 million Africans require at least one assistive device—such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, screen readers, Braille devices, and communication tools—only 10% to 25% of needs are being met in many countries.

Moreover, access remains heavily concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural communities significantly underserved. High costs, weak service delivery, limited awareness, and fragmented referral pathways further restrict availability.

The study also highlighted a significant gap between demand and provision. Mobility devices dominate the market, while technologies supporting communication, learning, cognition, and digital participation—critical for education and employment—remain largely neglected.

Despite these challenges, policy progress has been made. At least 38 African countries have adopted assistive technology strategies aligned with global frameworks since 2016. However, implementation remains slow due to funding gaps, weak monitoring systems, and poor coordination among government sectors.

"This report is a critical milestone in our efforts to understand and strengthen Africa's assistive technology ecosystem. It gives us the evidence base we need to drive smarter investments, more effective partnerships, and policy change that translates into real impact for young people with disabilities across the continent," said Hannah Tsadik, country director for Kenya Programs at the Mastercard Foundation.

The report also underscored a major economic opportunity. More than 85 percent of AT products in Africa are imported, leaving countries vulnerable to supply-chain disruptions. Yet growing innovation hubs in East Africa and expanding manufacturing capacity in Southern Africa present pathways for local production, job creation, and more inclusive economic growth.

The findings resonated with discussions at the Nairobi conference, where speakers emphasized inclusive digital development. Initiatives like Kenya's Digital Superhighway Programme and Jitume Digital Hubs were highlighted as successful examples of expanding digital access for learners with disabilities.

The report concluded that strategic investments in local manufacturing, digital innovation, workforce development, and youth-focused service models could transform assistive technology from an access gap into a powerful engine for inclusion and economic opportunity.