ABSTRACT

This chapter is an exploration of the use of social media and digital technology by youth with disabilities in Africa, specifically members of the African Youth with Disabilities Network (AYWDN). The goal is to explain how members of the group, who have become disability rights activists, have harnessed social media and mobile technology to promote disability rights both regionally and continentally. The aspects examined consider the effects of poor Internet connectivity, yet a high penetration of mobile-phone usage across Africa, on the use of social media and digital technology for disability activism. The research brings understanding and initial insights to the innovative use of digital technology for disability rights activism among youth who are living in challenging contexts.