Tech professionals urged to be inclusive in innovation

Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors Gregory Opondi and Daisy Kirui, panelists and judges Audrey Njenga, Marjan Hussein, Jacqueline Mwaura and Collins Omwenga during the launch of Hack4PWD. [Kelley Boss, Standard]

Kenya’s top tech talents have been urged to address critical accessibility needs through technology.

During the recent launch of an annual hackathon in Nairobi, tech developers were urged to design or improve assistive technologies that empower people with disabilities (PWD), an effort that aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 10 on reducing inequalities. 

The Hack4Series was launched on October 11 and runs until November 8. 

This year's edition, the Hack4PWD, is focused on user-centred, practical solutions that PWD can directly benefit from in areas like mobility, communication, education, and employment.

Ecosystems lead at Microsoft ADC Irene Githinji delivered a keynote address on the impact of accessible tech and the importance of designing solutions alongside those they are intended to serve.

An inclusivity advocate and person with disabilities, Jacquline Mwaura said “There shouldn't be a conversation about people with disabilities without people with disabilities,” highlighting the critical need for involving PWD in decision-making and innovation processes.

Other panellists included Microsoft software engineer Audrey Njenga, Collins Omwenga from Techno Brain Group and Marjan Hussein of ADC Ecosystems at Microsoft. 

The event also featured a speaker session by Nick Were, co-founder of Prothea Kenya, where they employ an innovative digital workflow which enables orthopaedic technologists to lower the cost of their prosthetic devices while increasing the quality.

The discussions highlighted the various ways technology can bridge accessibility gaps and drive impactful social change. 

Hack4PWD seeks to create new assistive technology that enables PWD to access essential services independently, improving the affordability and functionality of existing solutions, and raising awareness around the importance of inclusivity in tech. 

Participants in Hack4PWD will build their solutions for one week as they compete for cash rewards and other prizes, with the winning innovation announced on November 8 at Microsoft ADC.

Teams are paired with seasoned mentors to guide them in the development process, promoting not only innovation but also a deep understanding of the unique challenges that PWD face.