Assessing the Implication of Information Technologies’ Accessibility for Children with Disabilities in Zanzibar, Tanzania: Need and Challenges

Abstract

Aims: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the hindering factors on the ability of children with disabilities to access digital services in Zanzibar. Background: The adoption of digital technologies and services by the government, private sector and citizens has been identified as a fundamental element of economic development that contributes to economic growth and facilitates job opportunities. The advancements in science and technology and the increase of digital platforms have impacts on the daily lives of children with disabilities and their families. Study Design: This study employed a cross-sectional design. Place and Duration of the Study: The study was conducted in Zanzibar from April 2024 to October 2024. Methodology: Random sampling and purposive sampling were used to select 72 respondents in the study area with an age range from 18 to 50 years. In this paper, primary and secondary data were employed. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Quantitative information was analyzed by using SPSS and Microsoft Excel and Content Analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Results: The results from this study show that 38% of the respondents agreed that lack of assistive devices is one of the hindering factors in the study area, 31% strongly agreed on the financial factors, 37% strongly agreed on the environmental factors, and 37% of the respondents strongly agreed on the lack of knowledge on digital technologies and 37% agreed on the poor assistance from parents or guardians as one of the hindering factors on the ability of children with disabilities in accessing digital services in the study area. Conclusion: The study concluded that there is a presence of hindering factors in the study area. So, there is a need to address those factors in order to ensure the ability of children with disabilities to access digital services in the study area.