Disability and digital inequality: understanding the impact of different disabilities and socio-economic factors on internet use in Ghana

This paper examines the underexplored area of internet use among persons with disabilities, with a focus on Ghana, where mobile phone use is expanding access to online services, including government, health, and economic opportunities like mobile banking. Despite this growth, little is known about internet usage of individuals with disabilities in Ghana, who often have lower incomes and may require assistive devices. Using data from the 2021 Ghana population census, involving 908,125 participants, this study explores the relationship between disability status and internet use. Findings indicate that individuals with disabilities are less likely to use the internet, even when controlling for various covariates. Notably, those with intellectual disabilities show the lowest likelihood of internet use. Additionally, disabled men are more likely to use the internet than disabled women. The study highlights the diversity within the disabled population, suggesting that different types of disabilities create unique barriers to internet access. It also underscores significant inequalities in internet use between disabled and non-disabled individuals, suggesting the need for policies that enhance use of internet for people with disabilities in Ghana. These policies and programs may include the provision of assistive technology, the promotion of accessible websites and applications, and the provision of subsidies for internet services.