Canon Showcases World Unseen In Kenya

Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) recently showcased its renowned initiative, World Unseen, in Kenya. This initiative was first exhibited at Gitex Morocco earlier in the year, and it shows Canon’s effort to advance inclusivity and accessibility in photography across the region.

The World Unseen exhibition showcased in Kenya in collaboration with the Kenya Society for the Blind (KSB) and the Kenya National Library Service commenced on December 3, 2024, commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The week-long programme will run until December 8, 2024, between 10AM- 6PM.

It kicked off with an exclusive media event inaugurated by Bishop Emeritus Jackson Kosgei, Member of Parliament representing persons with disabilities, Somesh Adukia- Managing Director Canon Central & North Africa, Samson Waweru, Executive Director- Kenya Society for the blind and Dr. Charles Nzivo, CEO Kenya National Library Service.

During the inauguration, Bishop Kosgei shared his sentiments mentioning that making technology inclusive and accessible, especially for persons with visual impairments, is both inspiring and transformative.

“This exhibition not only empowers individuals with disabilities to explore their creative potential but also sends a powerful message that inclusivity is at the heart of innovation. Let us remember that the disability agenda is not a preserve of a few people – those who are disabled – because disability is a possibility to everyone hence addressing the needs of persons with disabilities is a responsibility for all. I commend Canon and its partners for championing this cause and setting a benchmark for others to follow,” Kosgei said.

Breaking Barriers To Creativity

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 2.2 billion people globally have some form of visual impairment, presenting significant barriers to appreciating traditional visual art forms like photography. The World Unseen exhibition removes these barriers, offering accessibility to everyone—regardless of their visual ability—to experience and enjoy photography. By incorporating elevated prints, audio descriptions, soundscapes, and braille, this initiative ensures that photography transcends traditional boundaries and becomes an inclusive medium for storytelling and self-expression.

“The World Unseen is an innovative initiative that embodies Canon’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in the creative arts field. By offering a sensory-rich experience, we aim to change how both sighted and visually impaired individuals engage with photography, making it an immersive and inclusive art form,” said Somesh Adukia, Managing Director of Canon Central and North Africa.