Offline By Design

Crystal Pearl Team

How do digital technologies exclude self-employed people with disabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa ?

Offline By Design

Barriers Beyond Access

Despite the rapid growth of the digital landscape, millions of disabled entrepreneurs in Sub-Saharan Africa, like Vivian, are locked out of even basic online functions.

In this region, assistive technology can cost over $1,000, mobile data is among the most expensive in the world relative to income, and banking or e-commerce platforms routinely fail to work with screen readers.

Even where devices and networks exist, many people use less than 100 MB of data a month because design flaws, high costs, and skill gaps turn “access” into an empty promise.

We surfaced several structural barriers that explain why stories like Vivian’s are the rule, not the exception.

Connectivity ≠ Access

Even where mobile data or internet exists, it’s often unreliable—especially in rural areas. For self-employed disabled people, this makes even basic online participation impossible

Affordability Blocks Opportunity

Smartphones, mobile data, and assistive tools remain unaffordable for many. Without subsidies or inclusive pricing, digital participation stays out of reach.

Exclusion Is Built In

Poor design — unlabeled buttons, visual-only layouts, missing screen reader support — still blocks access. NGOs can push for better standards in the tools they promote or partner on.

Digital Skills Gaps Persist

Even when tools are available, support and training are missing. People are left to figure things out alone—or are never invited to learn at all.

Policy Gaps Mean People Get Missed

Digital inclusion laws often exist but aren’t enforced. Without accountability, disabled people remain invisible in systems meant to include them.

Stigma Still Shapes Access

Disabled people, especially rural women, face stigma that blocks training, funding, and visibility. That affects who gets digital access — and who gets left out.

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