
2024 has been a remarkable year for Kilimanjaro Blind Trust Africa (KBTA).We are proud and grateful as we reflect on our achievements. This year, we made significant strides in advancing STEM education for high school students with visual impairments (VI). Both girls and boys are excelling in mathematics and exploring careers in science and technology which was a major barrier in the past, that we are collectively working to break. With digital assistive devices, VI learners are now able to access all aspects of their education on equal footing with their sighted peers in the classrooms.
Our Employability Skills Program also saw notable success, equipping young VI graduates with adapted ICT and professional skills. This has boosted their confidence and readiness to pursue career opportunities. Across East Africa and Malawi, challenges faced by VI children and youth in accessing quality education, are turning into opportunities as they advance in education and work readiness.
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Honored with the Zero Project Award 2024
In February 2024, KBTA received the prestigious Zero Project Award 2024Â for our innovative use of technology to advance education for visually impaired (VI) children and youth. This recognition highlights the dedication of our team, partners, and supporters in breaking barriers and promoting inclusivity. It was a proud moment that reinforced our commitment to building a more equitable future. Our partnership with the Zero Project has also opened doors to new collaborations, creating opportunities to impact the VI children and youth we serve.
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STEM Camps to Stimulate Interest in Science & Technology:
In 2024, KBTA successfully organized three major STEM camps for visually impaired (VI) learners from 18 secondary schools across Kenya. Over three days, students engaged with science and math teachers, mentors, and tech specialists through hands-on activities and knowledge exchange.
A key highlight was introducing VI youth to robotics, enhancing their problem-solving skills and practical innovation. Students also shared achievements from their school-based STEM clubs, fostering collaboration and inspiration. Notably, at the camp hosted at SIKRI Vocational Training College, learners showcased impressive projects, demonstrating their potential to excel in STEM fields.
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Launch of Digital Computer Labs
In 2024, KBTA established ICT skills training by setting up fully functional computer labs in seven secondary schools and one university across Kenya. A total of 120 high-end computers equipped with JAWS software were installed, enabling visually impaired (VI) learners to access ICT training as part of their regular curriculum.
The beneficiary institutions included Kibos Special High School, Nico Hauser Special Secondary School, Likoni Secondary School for the VI, Marigat Secondary School, Mitoto Special Secondary School, St. Francis Secondary School, Bungoma High School, and Maseno University.
Additionally, KBTA placed trained VI graduates in six schools to teach adapted ICT skills to students. By systematically building technology capacity for VI learners and teachers, KBTA ensures they acquire essential skills and can compete on equal footing with their peers.
The transformation is already visible as students embrace assistive devices to pursue their dreams.
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Research on Mobile as Assistive Technology (AT) to Improve Communication:
KBTA conducted research in collaboration with the Global Disability in the UK and Innovation Hub and JKUAT university in Nairobi, on the use of mobile smartphones as assistive technology with 200 respondents—100 blind and 100 deaf youth and adults—from diverse age groups and backgrounds across Kenya. The study explored the capacity of persons with disabilities to maximize on the benefits of  smartphones for work and communication,  by using accessibility features often overlooked.
Through this program, we equipped participants with smart mobile tools to enhance communication, access to information, and independence. The initiative demonstrated the critical role of technology in bridging gaps and creating inclusive opportunities for persons with disabilities.
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Educational Outcomes Across Primary, Secondary Schools and Colleges in Countries of Intervention:
KBTA continues to promote digital literacy & skills for VI learners at all educational institutions that offer access to education through the use of technology. We have continued to provide the Orbit Reader 20 to all VI learners in schools as well as colleges, training teachers on the use of the devices, providing access to digital curriculum content, training key technicians on the maintenance and repair of the devices while offering extensive repairs, tools and spare parts to ensure that the VI learners do not experience disruptions.
Kenya: we have been able to distribute 1700 digital assistive devices in all 60 primary and secondary schools as well as in 3 teacher training colleges, 3 TVETS and 7 universities. We are definitely witnessing better grades in all subjects and  greater transition to higher levels. The gap of assistive technology for schools in Kenya is as low as 10%. KBTA has been able to distribute an additional 2400 digital assistive devices for VI learners in 126 schools and 4 universities across Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Malawi and Ethiopia. The countries with the highest number of VI learners yet to be served are Tanzania and Ethiopia.
Rwanda: We celebrated a historic achievement as a learner with visual impairment achieved third  position countrywide, in the secondary-level national exams. This remarkable accomplishment demonstrates the potential of inclusive education when resources and support are aligned.
Tanzania: Our support to VI learners in the schools in Zanzibar was commemorated with the signing of an MoU with the Zanzibar, Â Ministry of Education. KBTA plans to start its employability skills training program as it has covered schools in the regions between Dar es Salaam and the political capital in Dodoma. Â
Uganda: The digital skills literacy program continues to grow and thrive while KBTA is working to roll out its STEM program for high school VI learners. . With qualified technicians now in place, we ensure the maintenance and functionality of assistive devices across the country, guaranteeing uninterrupted learning for VI learners.
The Year Ahead:
As we reflect on our journey, we remain energized and inspired by our mission to empower learners with visual impairments across Africa. Every step forward has been made possible by the unwavering support of our incredible donors and partners.
Your belief in our vision fuels our work, turning challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality. Together, we are building a future of impact, innovation, and inclusion—one where every learner has the tools to thrive.
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