Accessibility Statement for Nomsa's Kitchen

Accessibility Features

• Semantic HTML: We use semantic HTML elements to structure our content, making it easier for assistive technologies to understand and navigate our website.
• Alternative Text: All images on our website have descriptive alternative text, ensuring that users who cannot see the images can understand their content. For example, a picture of Bobotie will have the alt text "Bobotie, a traditional South African minced meat dish baked with an egg-based topping." A picture of Biltong will have the alt text "Close-up of thinly sliced Biltong, a cured meat snack from South Africa." A picture of a braai will have the alt text "A South African braai with grilling boerewors, chicken, and vegetables."
• Keyboard Navigation: Our website is fully navigable using a keyboard, allowing users who cannot use a mouse to access all content and functionality.
• Sufficient Color Contrast: We have ensured that there is sufficient color contrast between text and background colors to meet WCAG guidelines, making it easier for users with low vision to read our content.
• Resizable Text: Users can easily resize the text on our website without losing content or functionality.
• Clear and Consistent Navigation: Our website has a clear and consistent navigation structure, making it easy for users to find the information they need.
• Forms Accessibility: All form elements are properly labeled and provide clear instructions, ensuring that users can easily complete and submit forms.
• ARIA Attributes: We use ARIA attributes where necessary to enhance the accessibility of interactive elements.

WCAG Compliance

We are actively working towards conforming to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA. These guidelines outline best practices for making web content more accessible to people with disabilities. Our ongoing efforts include:

• Regularly auditing our website for accessibility issues.
• Implementing fixes and improvements based on audit findings.
• Training our staff on accessibility best practices.
• Seeking feedback from users with disabilities to improve our website's accessibility.

Specific Accessibility Considerations

Images

All images on Nomsa's Kitchen include descriptive alternative text. This helps users who are visually impaired understand the content of the images. Examples include:

Keyboard Navigation

Users can navigate the entire website using only a keyboard. This is important for users with motor impairments or those who prefer keyboard navigation.

Use the Tab key to move between links and form fields. Use the Enter key to activate links and submit forms. Use the Arrow keys to navigate menus and other interactive elements.

Color Contrast

We have carefully selected color combinations to ensure sufficient contrast between text and background. This helps users with low vision read the content more easily. We have tested our color schemes using accessibility tools to ensure they meet WCAG standards. The primary brand color, a soft earthy brown, complements the lighter background, ensuring readability while maintaining a warm and inviting aesthetic. Key elements like buttons and links feature the primary color to draw attention, and their hover states provide clear visual feedback.

Forms

All forms on Nomsa's Kitchen are designed to be accessible. This includes:

• Properly labeled form fields.
• Clear instructions and error messages.
• Sufficient spacing between form elements.

Tables

Data tables are used to present information in a structured manner. All tables include captions and scope attributes to improve accessibility.

Reporting Accessibility Issues

We are committed to addressing any accessibility issues that may arise. If you encounter any barriers while using our website, please let us know. You can contact us at accessibility@nomsaskitchen.co.za or call us at 021 813 9000.

Ongoing Efforts

Accessibility is an ongoing process, and we are dedicated to continuously improving the user experience for all visitors to Nomsa's Kitchen. We appreciate your feedback and suggestions as we work towards creating a more accessible website.

Our team, led by Thandiwe Mthembu, our dedicated Accessibility Officer, is committed to regular audits and updates to maintain and improve our accessibility standards. We use a combination of automated tools and manual testing to identify and address potential issues, ensuring that Nomsa's Kitchen remains a welcoming and inclusive online space for everyone who shares a love for South African home cooking.

Nomsa's Kitchen is committed to creating an inclusive online experience. We recognize the importance of making our website accessible to individuals with disabilities. This accessibility statement outlines the measures we have taken to ensure that our website is accessible to everyone.