Kenya

Accelerating access to assistive technology in Kenya

©ATscale/Carlisto Ochieng

COUNTRY PROGRAMME KEY INFORMATION

Programme type:

Grant Investment:

Duration:

Implementing
Partners:

Functional domains:

Scale-up

7.5 Million

2022-2028

Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI)

Mobility, Vision

COUNTRY DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

Total population:

GNI Per Capital (US$):

AT Unmet Need (%):

55.3 Million

2,115

81.6%

Accelerating access to assistive technology in Kenya

Map of Kenya

Objectives of the programme: To improve access to assistive devices for individuals with functional difficulties, through a five-year National Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Strategy, with activities spanning mobility, vision and hearing, and with a cross-cutting focus on strengthening systems for the sustained provision of essential assistive products like mobility aids, spectacles, low-vision aids and hearing aids. The programme is anchored in the Ministry of Health, a National Programme Committee comprising intersectoral ministries, United Nations agencies. Civil society representatives lead and oversee the programme.

Programme results:

	The establishment of Kenya's first public sector optical lab at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has enhanced access to affordable vision-correction services. Three new optical laboratories are being established – in Nakuru, Mombasa and Uasin Gishu counties.
	Priority assistive products have been successfully integrated into the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) Logistics Management Information System (LMIS), enhancing predictability and transparency of assistive devices supply chains. This is a key step to ensure health facilities can efficiently requisition assistive products.
	With the programme's support, Kenya has developed its first-ever Bachelor of Science degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics and introduced a short course in Kenya sign language for healthcare workers.