Resources for the Visually Impaired and Blind in Kenya

Thika School for the Blind, Kenya Institute for the Blind (KIB), and Kenya Society for the Blind (KSB) are dedicated to empowering visually impaired individuals in Kenya through education, accessibility, and support services. Thika School offers digital literacy, mobility training, and assistive technology, fostering independence and societal integration. KIB produces essential Braille and digital materials, provides rehabilitation, and operates Kenya’s only national Braille library, enhancing learning opportunities. KSB focuses on blindness prevention and empowerment through eye care, inclusive education, and rehabilitation programs. Together, these institutions create an enabling environment for visually impaired individuals to thrive in Kenyan society.

Thika School for the Blind

Thika School for the blind Is an educational institution in Kenya dedicated to providing quality education and support services for visually impaired students. They focus on empowering students through various programs, including:

1. Computer Coding; Teaching students essential coding skills to enhance their digital literacy and prepare them for future job opportunities.

2. Assistive Technology: Providing training on the use of assistive devices and software that facilitate learning and daily activities for visually impaired individuals.

3. Orientation and Mobility: Offering guidance on navigation and independent movement in various environments, which is crucial for building confidence and safety in daily life.

The school aims to create an inclusive environment that promotes independence and integration into society for students with visual impairments. They also engage in community outreach and advocacy to raise awareness about the needs of visually impaired individuals.

Kenya Institute for the Blind

Kenya Institute for the Blind (K.I.B) was registered as a National Braille Resource Centre for the Blind Persons by the Ministry of Education Science and Technology in February 2009

With over 50 years of experience and more than 300 satisfied students, K.I.B promotes user-centered learning and accessibility, ensuring that individuals with visual impairments have the resources and support they need to thrive

Vision: To empower individuals with visual impairments through accessible education and resources, fostering inclusivity in society.

Mission: To produce quality Braille and digital materials, provide training and rehabilitation, and offer information services to enhance the educational experiences of learners with visual impairments

What they do

1. Braille and Digital Material Production: Creating accessible teaching and learning materials for students with visual impairments.

2. Training and Rehabilitation: Offering comprehensive training for newly blinded individuals and support personnel, focusing on Braille literacy and orientation skills.

3. Braille Library Services: Managing the only national Braille library in Kenya, with over 5,000 titles available for lending to educational institutions and the public.

4. Additional Services:

- Brailling and de-brailling examination scripts for colleges offering special education.

- Thermoforming services for accessible materials.

- Repair and maintenance of Braille equipment.

- Book and document binding services.

- Cutting and distribution of Braille papers

The link to their website; https://keib.or.ke/

Kenya Society for the Blind

The Kenya Society for the Blind (KSB), established in 1956 through an Act of Parliament, is dedicated to serving individuals at risk of blindness and those living with visual impairment in Kenya

Vision.

KSB envisions a society where no one is needlessly blind and where the rights of visually impaired individuals are upheld.

Mission

Our mission is to create an enabling environment for persons with visual impairments through prevention, education, rehabilitation, and empowerment initiatives, collaborating with individuals, partners, and government agencies.

Key Programs

1.Eye Care

- Eye Clinic: Offers comprehensive eye care, including routine exams and treatment for complex conditions.

- optical Shop: Provides affordable eyewear and vision aids.

- community Outreach: Delivers eye care services to underserved areas, offering screenings and education.

2. Education

- Coordinates the Kenya Integrated Education Program (KIEP) in partnership with the Ministry of Education, promoting inclusive education for learners with visual impairments alongside sighted peers.

3. Rehabilitation

- Braille Literacy Training: Teaches skills for effective information communication.

- Orientation and Mobility Training: Helps individuals navigate their environment confidently.

- Adapted Computer and Phone Accessibility Training: Empowers clients to utilize technology and mobile devices.

KSB is committed to fostering independence and empowerment for individuals with visual impairments, ensuring they have access to essential services and education. This is the link to their website

https://www.ksblind.org/contact.html

Together, these institutions are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment that enables visually impaired individuals in Kenya to thrive academically, socially, and economically.