In 2009, with the support of German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) and other partners, the Kenya Union of the Blind (KUB) opened a Resource Centre for the visually impaired youth to:

• Produce information in formats accessible to visually impaired persons, especially related to gender based violence, sexual and reproductive health, and human rights.
• Train youth with visual impairments on the use of computers and assistive technology software to allow them to perform better in school and to prepare them for the job market.
• Facilitate and encourage the private sector, government, educational institutions and NGOs to produce materials in formats accessible to visually impaired persons, including digital text, Braille, audio (MP3) and large print.
• Support KUB’s programmes with income generated through the sale of computers equipped with assistive technology software, Braille paper and machines, and other assistive devices.

Our Services include:

• Scanning of documents and books into digital and audio formats
• Production of documents and books in Braille
• Production and sale of educational materials into alternative formats (large print, Braille and digital)
• Transcription of audio files to digital text
• Sale of assistive devices including Braille machines, Braille paper and white canes.

Our Services are tailored for:

• Government bodies and Agencies
• Education institutions
• Private sector businesses
• International agencies
• NGOs
• Faith based organizations
• Medical institutions
• Media houses

Future Plans

1. The Resource Centre has developed a youth mentorship programme which will be mentoring youths with visual impairment on how to use assistive technology as they prepare for their future careers.
2. In partnership with other development partners, similar resource centres will be scale up to all the KUB branches country wide to increase access to information for visually impaired youth.
3. The centre will continue to serve as viable and sustainable income generating activity for the members of the KUB.