From Disability to Ability 

In partnership with the Ayudame3D Foundation (Spain)   

Breaking Barriers to Mobility Through Innovation

Partnering with Ayudame3D, I led efforts to introduce custom 3D-printed prosthetic arms to amputees in rural Tanzania, addressing critical gaps in mobility, rehabilitation, and access to assistive devices.

The Challenge

In rural Tanzania, individuals with limb loss face significant barriers to mobility, education, and employment. Access to prosthetic devices is severely limited due to high costs, a lack of specialized facilities, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Without solutions, many are excluded from economic and social participation.

The Solution & Approach

I worked closely with local healthcare providers and Ayudame3D to:
✅ Identify Key Partners – Partnered with a regional hospital to serve as a hub for prosthetic knowledge, production, and rehabilitation.
✅ Conduct Needs Assessments – Evaluated and prioritized the most vulnerable individuals for prosthetic support.
✅ Implement Customized Prosthetics – Launched a pilot program providing personalized 3D-printed prosthetic arms tailored to beneficiaries.
✅ Train Local Healthcare Workers – Equipped clinicians with skills in identifying candidates, assessment, prosthetic fitting, and infrastructure for future production.     

✅ Train Local Healthcare Workers – Equipped clinicians with skills in identifying candidates, assessment, prosthetic fitting, and infrastructure for future production.

Results & Impact

✔ 12 recipients received custom-made prosthetic arms, restoring mobility and independence.
✔ Local healthcare workers trained in prosthetic fitting and upkeep, ensuring long-term sustainability.
✔ Strengthened partnerships with Ayudame3D, grassroots organizations, and government stakeholders.
✔ Raised awareness of 3D printing’s potential for medical solutions, fostering advocacy and innovation.

Looking Forward

This initiative demonstrates how innovation can bridge critical gaps in mobility and independence. With trained local clinicians and a foundation for future prosthetic production, it marks a step toward long-term, sustainable impact. The potential for 3D printing in assistive technology continues to grow, opening new opportunities to expand accessibility worldwide.

💡 Are you working on solutions that drive real impact in healthcare access, mobility, or assistive technology? I’d love to hear your ideas and explore ways to collaborate.

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