Inclusive Design and Accessibility of the Built Environment in Nairobi, Kenya: An AT2030 Case Study
- Gloria Tanui
- Nov 4, 2024
- 2 min read
This case is part of a larger study which aimed to, in cities in Columbia, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Mongolia and Sierra Leone, answer the questions of: (1) what is the current state of inclusive and accessible environments and infrastructure and (2) what is the role of inclusive design in creating an enabling environment for disabled people?
In Nairobi, Kenya, community-led solutions and empowerment for an inclusive built environment and access to Assistive Technology (AT) were found to be vital to create an enabling environment for persons with disabilities. Some identified examples of community-led solutions for accessible design included an intervention of a church in Kibera, installing a ramp to ensure access for its users. The participants of the study also shared how some churches have programmes to support persons with disabilities.
“Something similar to an awareness program I could say the one offered by the church, because our church they’ve included a special needs section for the church. I think the church is… but I haven’t seen any from the government.”
Example of accessible ramp at place of worship
Ref: AT2030
Other examples of community-led solutions include individually adapted AT such as wheelchairs, to enable navigation of the terrain found in informal settlements. Overall, some successful types of inclusive design interventions were raised by disabled participants, which included: tarmacked roads, as well as the local police station and the university where there were vehicles dedicated to supporting mobility for persons with disabilities.
So what works? A list of indicators was developed to define what is working to build an enabling environment in Nairobi’s settlements today. A selection of these are shared below:
PwDs in leadership roles have been seen to drive progress.
Processes of co-creation and co-design can be effective in informal settlements, such as the Mukuru Special Planning Area, as well as the Kibera Public Space Project by Kounkuey Design Initiative, to build trust and create a sense of ownership of infrastructure development.
Proximity. Having services and activities within shorter distances helps mitigate mobility barriers.
Inclusive recreation and culture support wellbeing and quality of life, and enable socialisation.
Enabling innovation and entrepreneurship. Support persons with disabilities to develop and scale businesses that may allow for more flexible and adaptive livelihoods.
Awareness helps - there is still work to do.