"Empower women to Empower Nation"
Kelela for Women and PWDs
we are building inclusive, equitable, and prosperous societies where everyone can fully participate and contribute.
In post-conflict Tigray, women and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) face significant barriers to economic participation. These include limited access to education, training, and resources; societal discrimination; a lack of inclusive infrastructure; and the profound impact of conflict on livelihoods and support systems. The digital divide further exacerbates these challenges, hindering access to information, market opportunities, and modern entrepreneurial tools. While some assistive devices exist, their availability, affordability, and integration with digital solutions remain limited.
To empower women and PWDs in Tigray to achieve economic independence and social inclusion by equipping them with essential digital skills, entrepreneurial knowledge, and access to innovative assistive technology, specifically focusing on the "Kelela Crutch" (a hypothetical advanced crutch or mobility aid designed for enhanced functionality and comfort).
The "Kelela" crutch, developed by the African Market Group, represents a significant advancement in assistive technology for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Its innovative design addresses a critical gap in mobility aids by enabling PWDs to not only move but also sit, particularly on floor-mounted toilets, which are common in many regions. This solution enhances accessibility, fosters independence, and improves the quality of life for PWDs in several key ways
Enhance Digital Literacy
⇒Frain 500 women and 250 PWDs (total 750 participants) in foundational digital literacy, covering internet navigation, email communication, online safety, basic software usage (e.g., word processing, spreadsheets), and mobile money applications.
⇒Develop accessible digital literacy modules tailored to various disability types (e.g., screen readers for visually impaired, sign language interpreters for hearing impaired, accessible interfaces for those with motor impairments).
⇒Establish community digital hubs in key towns and rural centers equipped with internet access and assistive technologies.
Cultivate Entrepreneurial Skills:
⇒Provide comprehensive entrepreneurship training to 300 selected women and 150 PWDs (total 450 participants) who demonstrate entrepreneurial potential. This training will cover business plan development, financial management, market research, product development, and customer service.
⇒Integrate digital marketing strategies into the entrepreneurship curriculum, teaching participants how to leverage social media, e-commerce platforms, and online advertising to reach wider markets.
⇒Facilitate mentorship opportunities with established local entrepreneurs and business development service providers.
Promote and Distribute "Kelela Crutch" and Other Assistive Devices:
⇒he project would involve a preliminary phase of research and development, potentially in collaboration with local universities or engineering firms in Tigray, to design and prototype a user-friendly, durable, and affordable advanced crutch. This would involve co-design workshops with PWDs to ensure it meets their specific needs
⇒ Provide comprehensive training on the proper use, maintenance, and benefits of these devices.
⇒ Advocate for the wider adoption and affordability of "Kelela Crutches" and other assistive technologies within Tigray's healthcare system and humanitarian aid efforts.