Joshua Tiisa, optical technician at Kenyatta Hospital providing an insightful demonstration on the functionality of a newly-acquired machine that cuts lenses. Patients do not have to go elsewhere with their prescription for glasses but can receive them in the same place.
Photo by ATscale/Carlisto Ochieng
In the busy corridors of Kenyatta Hospital- the largest hospital in Kenya and in East Africa- four-year-old Tony is playing near his mother while they wait to be seen by a specialist.
Tony was recently fitted for a hearing aid. "It's been life-changing," his mother explained, recounting their struggles to afford treatment before finding support through the ATscale-supported programme in Kenya. "The initial cost from another hospital was Ksh 120,000 ($1,200) which was beyond our reach, but now, with just Kshs 9,500 ($95),Tony can hear better and is preparing to attend school."
Tony with his mother.
ATscale has been working with the government of Kenya, Ministry of Health, through the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) since April 2023 to increase access to rehabilitation services and assistive technology (AT) for those who need it.
“Our aim is to expand access to assistive technology, focusing on affordability and availability, through partnerships” said Pascal Bijleveld, CEO of ATscale. “Only 10% of people in low-income countries are able to access the products they need, leading to millions of people today effectively 'locked-out' of education and the workforce."
In Kenya, high costs and low quality products present huge barriers in access, coupled with shortages of skilled personnel in service provision. The ATscale-supported programme has, so far, addressed this gap by equipping 15 hospitals with newborn hearing and screening machines, each costing around USD 60,000, which were previously not available in the country. This technology enables early screening of children aged zero to three years . Detecting vision and hearing impairments at an early stage is an important step for early childhood development. “For young children, having access to assistive technology such as glasses, hearing aids, wheelchairs, or digital devices for communication is transformational for lifelong outcomes. Early childhood (age 0-8) is a crucial time of life when cognitive, physical, language, motor skills, social and emotional development occurs” Said Pascal.
A fully functional optical lab at Kenyatta National Hospital has also been established thanks to the programme. Joshua Tiisa, a consultant trainer in optical technology, shares his excitement, "We can now offer a complete package of eye care services under one roof. Previously, patients were referred elsewhere for glasses, but now, the lab serves approximately 30 patients a month and this number is expected to increase as processes streamline”.
A holistic approach to improving access to assistive technology (AT)
Elijah Karue, is able to operate a computer independently, access online resources, and even shop online. Photo: ATscale|Carlisto Ochieng
Elijah Karue, born with a visual impairment, has faced numerous challenges throughout his life, particularly in accessing information and navigating his surroundings. "Every day was a struggle," said Elijah. "I relied heavily on others to help me with tasks that many people take for granted such as operating a computer and shopping online."
The programme ATscale supports was designed to address such challenges, with a comprehensive plan to improve access to rehabilitation services and AT for individuals like Elijah through partners such as the Kenya Society for the Blind. Supported by an investment of USD 7.5 million over three years (2023-2025), the programme aims to provide assistive technology to an additional 275,000 people in Kenya by 2025. This effort is part of a government-owned joint investment plan, developed with contributions from all key AT stakeholders in the country.
The programme focuses on the most pressing AT needs across mobility, vision, hearing, and communication. "We're not just changing lives; we're building a sustainable system," says Nancy Kemunto, a senior audiologist at Kenyatta National Hospital and a member of the programme’s technical working group. Nancy highlights the programme’s success in establishing national registers for ENT and hearing care, which have become standard tools across healthcare facilities. "These registers and service delivery guidelines are essential for ensuring everyone can access the necessary services," she adds.
One of the programme's key achievements is the establishment of a government-led National Rehabilitation and AT Coordination Mechanism, which fosters collaboration among the variety of stakeholders working to address the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. For Elijah, the introduction of screen readers and navigation aids has been nothing short of life-changing. These tools allow him to operate a computer independently, access online resources, and even shop online—a task he demonstrates with ease. "Using technology like screen readers has given me a sense of autonomy I never thought possible," Elijah shares with a smile.
Nancy Kemunto, is a senior audiologist at Kenyatta National Hospital and a member of the programme’s technical working group.
ATscale|Carlisto Ochieng
Building a sustainable future
The impact of the programme extends beyond individual success stories. Across Kenya, awareness campaigns and educational workshops are raising demand and encouraging more people to seek the AT services they need. These efforts are crucial in a country where access to such technology has traditionally been limited. "We want to provide opportunities for people to live their fullest lives, and that starts with ensuring they have the tools they need," emphasizes Nancy.
Beyond equipment and facilities, the programme invests heavily in human resources, providing scholarships for specialist training in audiology and speech therapy. This initiative addresses the shortage of skilled professionals, a critical barrier to service delivery. "We had a huge backlog of patients needing speech rehabilitation due to limited specialists," Nancy explains. "These scholarships ensure trained professionals return to their counties, decentralizing services and reducing pressure on national facilities."
The programme includes training healthcare workers across Kenya in hearing aid fitting and sign language, ensuring a well-rounded approach to AT service delivery. "We've trained nearly 133 participants in sign language, enabling them to communicate effectively with patients," Nancy mentions. This training ensures that basic care can be managed locally, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for routine services.
Martin Wekesa, another beneficiary of the programme, exemplifies the transformative power of AT. After losing his sight in 2019, Martin faced significant challenges in adapting to his new reality. "I was paralyzed for 18 months, and it was a difficult time," he recalls. However, through the training and support provided by the programme, Martin has regained his independence. He now navigates the digital world with confidence, using technology to stay connected and informed.
Additionally, the development of the Kenya Assistive Technologies Essential Products List (KATEPL) helps standardize AT provision across all counties, ensuring that the right tools are available where they are needed most.
As Elijah envisions his future, he is filled with optimism and determination. "Thanks to the support and technology available to me, I can pursue my dreams without limitations," he says. His journey is a powerful reminder of what is possible when technology, collaboration, and commitment come together to create lasting change.
The integration of AT services into Kenya's national health system aligns with WHO's recommendations for continuous improvement and sustainability. The programme supports data collection and monitoring processes, providing a comprehensive view of AT needs across the country. This integration is crucial for planning future interventions and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively.
“The programme's success is a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership. By addressing capacity gaps and decentralizing services, the programme is not just meeting current needs—it's paving the way for future advancements” said Alex Kisyanga, Head of Rehabilitation, Ministry of Health.