Persons with disabilities in Ghana are encountering significant accessibility barriers on websites and digital platforms. This poor design risks excluding them from essential services and opportunities. These concerns emerge as Ghana accelerates its digital transformation efforts.
The issue stems from websites not being properly configured for assistive technologies. This makes navigation difficult for users with visual impairments, for example. Such technical shortcomings can prevent individuals from accessing vital information or completing online transactions. This directly impacts their ability to engage with public and private sector services.
This situation highlights a critical gap in Ghana’s broader economic and social development. As more government and private sector services move online, digital exclusion can deepen existing inequalities. It affects access to education, healthcare, financial services, and employment opportunities. The Bank of Ghana, for instance, has introduced directives on financial inclusion. However, these directives may not fully address digital accessibility for persons with disabilities. This could inadvertently limit their participation in the formal economy.
Sayena Susu, a visually impaired participant at a recent workshop, highlighted specific challenges. He explained that some websites are nearly impossible to navigate using assistive technologies. Mr. Susu cited online forms as a prime example. Users may input all required information but cannot submit the form because the submission button is inaccessible. This prevents successful completion of critical tasks.
Stakeholders are now calling for immediate action to address these systemic issues. They advocate for stronger accessibility standards and greater involvement of persons with disabilities in digital product development. Ephraim Tetteh, a web developer and disability inclusion specialist, stressed the importance of direct engagement. He stated that developers must consult persons with disabilities during the design phase. This interaction helps identify accessibility gaps that might otherwise be overlooked. Dr. Maud Ashon Elliot, President of the Internet Society Ghana Chapter, echoed this sentiment. She emphasized that accessibility should be a foundational element, not an afterthought. Building accessibility from the start is more effective than adding it later.
The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) also weighed in on the matter. Elias Mane, CHRAJ’s Digital Rights Focal Person, urged the government to ensure public digital platforms are accessible. This is particularly crucial as government services increasingly migrate online. Mr. Mane underscored the need for direct engagement with the disability community. This engagement helps understand user challenges when accessing digital services. Without these measures, Ghana’s digital growth risks leaving a significant portion of its population behind. This could hinder overall economic productivity and social equity. Ensuring digital inclusion is vital for Ghana's inclusive development agenda.