Africa’s assistive technology ecosystem is becoming more coordinated, but millions of people with disabilities remain vulnerable because many countries have yet to build locally led assistive technology systems, according to a new report by South Africa’s Stellenbosch University.
The Assistive Technology Landscape in Africa Scoping Review, commissioned by the Mastercard Foundation, analysed 523 sources, including 185 peer-reviewed scientific studies and 338 policy documents, organisational reports, and other materials spanning all 54 African countries.
It found that assistive technology policy activity has accelerated since 2016, with at least 38 countries adopting national strategies aligned with the World Health Organisation and United Nations frameworks. But most policies remain aspirational because they lack adequate financing and monitoring systems to support implementation, leaving Africa “policy-rich but implementation-poor.”
The report said East and Southern Africa have built more resilient assistive technology ecosystems by strengthening links between governments, universities, and civil society. By contrast, West and Central Africa remain more reliant on donors and international partners, with weaker institutional integration limiting the development of sustainable systems.
