Mobile Disability Gap

The disparity in mobile phone and smartphone ownership, access, and usage between disabled and non-disabled populations. In Kenya, smartphone ownership among disabled individuals is only 12% compared to 41% for non-disabled people — a 72% gap. The mobile disability gap is driven by affordability barriers, lack of awareness of accessibility features, inaccessible device interfaces, limited digital literacy, and insufficient support services. Closing this gap is critical because smartphones increasingly serve as gateways to essential services, employment, and social participation.