A new initiative called “EmpowerAbility” has been launched in Rwanda. It aims to produce affordable prosthetic limbs locally. The cost is planned to be eventually covered by the Community-Based Health Insurance (CBHI).
The initiative was unveiled on October 7, 2024, by Bridging Afrika. This organization focuses on leveraging technology and innovation to tackle Africa’s social challenges. The initiative is being implemented with the University of Rwanda’s Center of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering and E-Health (UR-CEBE). It also involves the National Union of Disability Organizations in Rwanda (NUDOR) and other key partners.
The “EmpowerAbility” project supports Rwanda’s progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3. This goal promotes accessible healthcare for all. It aligns with the 2030 Agenda’s call to “leave no one behind.” Each year, an estimated one million limb amputations occur globally. Rwanda faces challenges in providing affordable care for people with disabilities. Prosthetics are not presently covered by CBHI (Mutuelle de santé).
The EmpowerAbility initiative seeks to solve this gap by offering locally produced, cost-effective prosthetics. It provides holistic support, including mental wellness services for amputees. The project represents a sustainable, locally managed solution designed to directly benefit Rwandans living with disabilities.
“EmpowerAbility is focused on empowering amputees by providing access to affordable, locally produced 3D-printed prostheses. They also offer comprehensive support services. These include mental health care and rehabilitation,” said Evelyne Batamuliza, Founder and Board Chairperson of Bridging Afrika.
As part of the implementation plan, Rwandans will initially be able to access 3D-printed upper limb prostheses. Later, they will have access to lower limb prosthetics. Discussions are also underway to negotiate with insurance providers to include these services under the CBHI scheme.
The Victoria Hand Project (VHP) is one of the initiative’s key partners. Based in Canada, they have already trained specialists. These specialists include medical staff from Kanombe Military Hospital. According to VHP CEO Michael Peirone, the project aims to train more local experts by next year. It also plans to set up a 3D printing prosthetic line in Rwanda to reduce costs.
“The prosthetic device will cost around $100, which is significantly more affordable compared to importing prosthetics from Europe. We can offer more affordable solutions by establishing 3D printing locally. Repairs can be done right here in Rwanda,” said Peirone.