DAISY Regional Network for Africa launched in Johannesburg

On Monday 28 September 2026, the DAISY Consortium launched the DAISY Regional Network for Africa at the Emperors Palace Convention Resort in Johannesburg. More than 90 people registered to attend in person, and a further 70 delegates from 20 countries joined online via Zoom.

The gathering brought together stakeholders from education, policy, publishing, libraries and the disability sector to build capacity for accessible publishing and reading across the continent. It was Africa’s turn to drive progress within the DAISY community of regional networks. The event took place just before the ICEVI Africa Conference, at the same venue.

The day opened with the story behind the DAISY regional networks, with contributions from Hiroshi Kawamura, Richard Orme, Dipendra Manocha and Shakila Maharaj. Visionary Learning through Technology followed, with stories of inclusive education from South Africa, across Africa and around the world. After the mid-morning break, Innovations for equality showcased free tools that turn printed pages into accessible digital text, audio and braille.

The afternoon turned to copyright, collections and collaboration, including the training, technical assistance and Global Book Service of the Accessible Books Consortium. The programme closed with a strategic roadmap, in which voices from across the continent made the case for why the network matters to their country. All five sessions can be watched on the Recordings page.

The clearest measure of success came on the day itself: organisations began joining the network before the event had ended. Among the first were organisations from South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda. Membership commitment forms completed by delegates show interest well beyond these four countries. Delegates from Cameroon, Ghana, Lesotho, Mali, Tanzania and Zimbabwe also pledged to become members, promote accessible publishing, convert books into accessible formats, and take part in network meetings, working groups and events.

The launch is the start of the work, not the end. Organisations that want to take part in the DAISY Regional Network for Africa can apply to become a DAISY Network Partner by completing a form.