Developing an Interactive Resource Map for Children with Disabilities in Kenya

Abstract

Background and Objectives: 

An estimated 15% of the global population are living with a disability. Children with disabilities remain one of the most vulnerable populations, experiencing significant barriers to wellness and inclusion. In countries like Kenya, it is a challenge to navigate the existing resources available to support individuals with disabilities. Our objective is to develop an interactive map of organizations and institutions that provide medical, educational, financial, or social resources to children with disabilities in Kenya. The target audience for this tool includes persons with disabilities, caregivers, medical professionals, and organization leaders.  

Project Methods: 

A comprehensive list of 219 organizations, institutions, and government offices was compiled from various online directories. Each organization was contacted for an interview to verify contact information, address, services offered, payment options, requirement for enrollment, and transport services. Based on the services offered, each organization was assigned categorical search tags. The data was entered into a third-party mapping site. The map was embedded within the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) website. 

Future Steps: 

The next two phases include: improving mapping quality and gathering feedback from key stakeholders. For instance, team members in Kenya are visiting each organization to take a photo of the site from the road and pin the specific location using mapping coordinates. In the next month, the pilot version of the map and a short survey will be sent to key stakeholders in Kenya. This feedback will inform revisions for future implementation. 

Potential Impact: 

Using the search features, this tool will allow medical professionals to provide more patient-specific referrals and caregivers to independently access these resources. Additionally, this map will inform organizations where resources are limited within the country. Ultimately, this interactive map will serve as a bridge to connect children with disabilities and their families to needed services.