Designing User Interfaces for Low-Literacy Populations in Niger: A Technological Approach

Low-literacy populations in Africa face significant barriers to accessing digital technologies effectively. A mixed-methods approach combining surveys (N=500), cognitive walkthroughs, and expert consultations was employed. User interface tests were conducted using a prototype evaluated through A/B testing. Users demonstrated clear preferences for intuitive icons over text labels, with 72% preferring visual cues over written instructions in tasks involving basic operations such as sending messages or browsing websites. User interfaces designed with low-literacy users in mind can significantly enhance digital literacy and engagement. Future research should focus on scalability and cost-effectiveness of the design principles identified, ensuring they are widely applicable across different regions in Africa.