Globally, research indicates that about 2% of the global population experiences milder forms of deafblindness, while approximately 0.2% live with severe deafblindness*.
Given Kenya’s population, these percentages could translate to significant numbers of approximately 1 million having a mild form of deafblindness and 100,000 having a more severe form.
*World Federation of the Deafblind (WFDB), 2018 At risk of exclusion from CRPD and SDGs implementation: Inequality and persons with deafblindness.
There is currently no specific law dedicated exclusively to addressing the needs of individuals with deafblindness in Kenya. This means that people with deafblindness continue to have limited awareness and services that address their specific needs. Deafblindness remains largely under researched, unexplored and misunderstood in Kenya, contributing to a significant lack of awareness among the general public. While the internet has expanded access to information and communication for individuals with deafblindness, persistent barriers still impede their full participation and inclusion.
Nevertheless, there has been some progress towards inclusion in Kenya. The legal and policy framework governing disability, information and communication technology (ICT), and access to information in Kenya are instrumental in ensuring equitable access and inclusion for all individuals, including those with disabilities. These laws not only emphasise reasonable accommodations and accessibility, but also prioritise the dissemination of information in formats that are inclusive and accessible to everyone regardless of their abilities.
Access to technology can be a game-changer for people with deafblindness, providing new ways to access information, communicate with others, and participate in daily life. These resources will enable people with deafblindness and those that support them to live, learn, and thrive.