In Africa, persons with disabilities face significant barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and social protection, resulting in high poverty rates. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 80% of persons with disabilities in Africa live in poverty. Women and girls with disabilities are particularly vulnerable, experiencing higher rates of poverty and violence. In South Africa, only 36.9% of working-age persons with disabilities are employed, compared to 73.3% of their non-disabled peers (Statistics South Africa, 2019). In Kenya, the unemployment rate among persons with disabilities is as high as 85% (National Disability Survey, 2019). Inclusive economic development approaches are necessary to address these disparities and promote economic growth.

• Foster dialogue on the economic inclusiveness of persons with disabilities and its impact on Africa’s growth.
• Identify innovative strategies to promote financial and professional inclusion.
• Provide a platform for networking and collaboration among key stakeholders.
• Develop actionable recommendations for policymakers and business leaders.