Vodacom holds its first disability and accessibility conference

It was a fun day of learning for the people who attended Vodacom's inaugural Disability and Accessibility Conference

Nkazimulo Ncube

May 23, 2024

Steve Chege, the Vodacom Group chief officer hands out certificates to recognise and celebrate accessibility and disability inclusion champions.

In an innovative initiative, Vodacom held its inaugural Disability and Accessibility Conference, making a bold commitment to promoting digital inclusion for persons with disabilities.

The event was held on May 2 and gathered esteemed speakers including government officials, policy experts, and industry leaders to deliberate on strategies aimed at closing the digital divide across Africa.

Sitho Mdlalose, CEO of Vodacom South Africa said the conference highlighted the connection between policy and innovation in driving digital inclusion. Governmental leaders such as minister Lindiwe Zulu who is a former employee of Vodacom, and Shuaib Chalklen from the African Disability Forum, shared insights on creating policies that will enhance inclusion.
During a panel discussion which included the chief director at Gender, Disability, Youth and Children, Petronella Linders, a spotlight was shone on the successes, opportunities, and challenges that still exist for persons with disabilities in a digital world. To come together to seek out solutions that close the digital divide, speakers were able to raise several pertinent issues of inclusion affecting persons with disabilities.
“Beyond seeking solutions to assist those in the communities we serve, this thought-leading event presented an opportunity to look inward and assess our internal policies and those of other employers in our markets,” concluded Taki Netshitenzhe the director of External Affairs for Vodacom South Africa.

Also read: Win an MSC cruise with Vodacom World – Huge Vodacom 30th birthday competition

“Addressing the workplace and employment challenges faced by those with disabilities is vitally important to ensuring their inclusion not just in the digital space but the digital economy on a broader scale. The insights that were shared by speakers will equip us to seek out solutions to issues faced by persons with disabilities across Africa.”

Nombulelo Mbatha.

Taki Netshitenzhe, Minister Lindiwe Zulu, Mpho Moyo, Petronella Linders and Mariana Gomes Neto on the first-panel discussion of the day.

Shameel Joosub delivers a keynote talk on driving accessible solutions to promote the participation of persons with disabilities in a digital economy.

Doreen Kissoky, Davide Tacchino, Yasmine Tarek Desouky and Pamella Lunga.

Wendy Mosethi and Mlungisi Khumalo.

Palesa Manaleng.

Javi Reddy.

Taki Netshitenzhe, minister Lindiwe Zulu, Mpho Moyo, Petronella Linders and Mariana Gomes Neto hold a panel discussion on removing barriers for persons with disabilities.