Transforming Local Manufacturing of Assistive Devices to Enhance Accessibility and Independence
Summary
In 2024, Kyaninga Mobility (KM) committed to transform the production of wheelchairs and other assistive devices in East Africa using innovative bamboo technology to reach more than 5,000 children with disabilities by 2027. Through expanding their production workshops, equipping them with the appropriate machinery, and training a skilled workforce for large-scale manufacturing, KM will transition from handcrafted to mechanical batch production of assisted devices that are adapted to the terrain and needs of children with disabilities in Uganda and neighboring countries. With KM’s supply of bamboo grown by caregivers of children with disabilities and workforce largely consisting of persons with disabilities, KM’s products will not only be locally sustainable and meet the specific needs and preferences of users but will also support the local economy. Through this commitment, 5,125 children with disabilities will receive specially fitted assistive devices, and thousands more will be reached across East Africa in the near future, providing opportunities for improved health, education, and independence.
Approach
Kyaninga Mobility (KM) commits to transform the production of assistive devices in East Africa using locally sourced materials and innovative, appropriate technology.
KM has gone through a meticulous three year design process to ensure that its assistive devices meet the most rigorous international standards and are durable enough to last in an East African setting. With focus on innovation, affordability, sustainability, and local adaptability to ensure that the products are not only high-quality but also reliable and long-lasting, KM developed a scalable production model with potential for lasting impact across the region.
As part of their commitment, KM is transitioning from handcrafted to mechanical batch production of wheelchairs, walking and standing frames, crutches, and balance bikes, giving thousands of children and adults with disabilities independence and dignity. KM is also committed to ensuring that each assistive device is personalized to meet individual needs.
KM uses bamboo in its assistive technology, since it is environmentally friendly, lightweight, economical, and locally available. Through KM’s bamboo out-grower program, families of children with disabilities will supply 90% of the raw materials needed for its products, thereby securing a sustainable supply chain and livelihoods for the families.
KM aims to scale production of 30 wheelchairs per month by the end of September 2025. Through continuous improvement of their mechanical technology, KM will increase production to 75 wheelchairs per month by the end of September 2026 and 100 per month by the end of September 2027 and will benefit 5,125 lives.
KM can scale beyond Uganda to East Africa and other parts of the world through the mechanical batch production process established through this commitment. The increased production capacity and improved distribution networks, supported by partnerships with organizations such as the African Disability Collaboration, will allow KM to reach a broader geographic region and a larger population of individuals with disabilities.
Action Plan
Year 1 (October 2024 to September 2025) : Foundation and Initial Scaling
Starting in October 2024, Kyaninga Mobility (KM) will transition from handmade to mechanical batch production by installing manufacturing equipment and initiating training programs for local workers with the help of global wheelchair experts. From January to March 2025, KM will complete the initial training of local workers, start pilot production runs of bamboo wheelchairs, and develop a detailed supply chain management plan. Partnerships with local suppliers of bamboo will be initiated along with an outgrowers program. By June 2025, KM will refine processes and begin full-scale production, targeting 30 wheelchairs per month by end September 2025. Initial distribution through Kyaninga Child Development Center’s network will start, with user feedback collected for improvements. From July to September 2025, KM will implement improvements based on feedback, expand training programs, and establish regional and international distribution partnerships.
Year 2 (October 2025 to September 2026) : Scaling and Expansion
In October 2025, KM will increase production, conduct quality control assessments, and expand the supply chain. By December, they will launch new product lines, such as customized wheelchairs for children.They will strengthen relationships with healthcare providers and conduct a mid-year production and distribution metrics review by June 2026. From July to September 2026, KM will increase production to 75 wheelchairs per month, and by the end of September 2026, expand distribution networks to reach remote areas, continue training, and develop additional partnerships.
Year 3 (October 2026 to September 2027) : Consolidation and Sustainability
Starting in October 2026, KM will increase production reaching 100 wheelchairs per month by the end of September 2027 alongside refining processes and strengthening supply chain resilience. In December 2026, KM will release impact assessments that measure quality-of-life improvement for all users. In 2027, KM will achieve financial sustainability through sales, enabling continued growth and development of assistive technology in East Africa.
Background
Over 2.5 billion people worldwide require assistive products such as wheelchairs and assistive devices, yet nearly one billion lack access. There is a stark disparity in access between low- and high-income countries, and in the most dire contexts, only 3% of the needs for these essential devices can be met. The number of people needing assistive products is projected to rise to 3.5 billion by 2050, far outweighing supply (UNICEF 2022) .
Assistive technology is crucial as it transforms lives by facilitating education, employment, and independence. Denying access to these products infringes on human rights and is economically shortsighted. Approximately 240 million children with disabilities are particularly vulnerable without assistive technology. This lack of access hinders their education and exposes them to greater risks of child labor, stigma, and discrimination, adversely affecting their confidence and well-being (WHO Regional Office for Africa 2024) .
Affordability remains a significant barrier, with two-thirds of users paying out of pocket for assistive products, often relying on financial support from family and friends. Research by the South African Medical Research Council in 2023 demonstrated a substantial gap in service provision and trained workforce to support those with mobility challenges and other disabilities, especially in cognitive, communication, and self-care domains. It also highlighted challenges with appropriate access and availability of assistive devices such as lack of awareness, high costs, inadequate product quality, and supply chain issues.
Imported wheelchairs in East Africa fall short in many crucial areas. They are expensive to import, built for different environments, and struggle on the African terrain, thus frequently breaking down. Without readily available spare parts, repairs also pose challenges. Thus, the high cost of importing and maintaining them creates a significant financial burden, limiting access for those who need them most. There is currently no scalable local manufacturing of wheelchairs in East Africa.
Assistive products are crucial for participation in communities, and their absence leads to exclusion and dependency.
Progress Update
Partnership Opportunities
Kyaninga Mobility (KM) seeks financial resources to invest in expanding its production capacity, acquiring materials, and establishing satellite distribution hubs.
They welcome collaboration with experts in mechanical batch manufacturing efficiency and sustainable supply chain management to optimize their operations.
KM is also looking for implementing partners that can help broaden market reach, have expertise in distribution networks, and have potential connections to funding sources.
Finally, media and marketing support to help create a sustainable sales plan would also help KM to scale its commitment, Kyaninga Mobility (KM) will provide media support to raise awareness and promote the importance of assistive technology, leveraging their platforms to amplify partner messages.
Additionally, KM offers topic expertise through training programs, workshops, and consultancy, empowering organizations with the knowledge and skills needed to drive change in their communities. Together, these efforts contribute to a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities.
Through the African Disability Collaboration, KM will share best practices on rehabilitation and therapy for wheelchair users.
KM will expand its reach by working with partners and build a network for sustainable assistive device provision in East Africa.