This month, ExpHand had the incredible opportunity to visit Kenya, a journey that had been in the works since the beginning of the year. Our primary goal was to collaborate with Kijenzi, a pioneering 3D print manufacturer based in Kisumu. This visit marked a significant step in our mission to explore the potential of manufacturing prosthetics abroad and ensuring that these devices meet the unique needs of a Kenyan audience.
Our team was running a 10-person trial aimed at testing the viability of locally produced prosthetics and evaluating how well they fit and function for Kenyan patients. To make this possible, we partnered with a variety of clinicians who played a crucial role in connecting us with local patients in need of prosthetic solutions.
During our visit, we had the privilege of having our prosthetics fitted in several locations across Kenya, including Eldoret, Bomet, and Nairobi. The Nairobi fittings were particularly special, as ExpHand Founder Kate was able to join the team at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) main campus.
At KMTC, we met with Elvis and David from Kijenzi, who were instrumental in arranging the fittings and ensuring everything ran smoothly. They also brought along the prosthetics that had been meticulously crafted at their Kisumu facility. The excitement in the air was palpable as we were given a tour of the orthotics and prosthetics department. The staff and students were especially intrigued by our devices, as these were the first 3D printed prosthetics they had encountered.
In Nairobi, we were able to fit two prosthetics for two remarkable young women, whom we’ll refer to as Sarah and Joy to respect their privacy. Sarah, the older of the two, came with her older sister, while Joy was accompanied by her mother. Both were visibly excited to try on their new prosthetics, and their enthusiasm was contagious.
We spent the day at KMTC, not just fitting the prosthetics but also touring the facilities, making necessary adjustments, and assisting the patients in performing various tasks with their new prostheses. Witnessing the joy and relief on Sarah and Joy's faces as they tried on their new limbs was incredibly rewarding.
This visit was more than just a fitting session; it was a learning experience for everyone involved. It allowed us to train clinicians on the intricacies of our prosthetics and educate the manufacturers on the best practices for fitting these devices. The hands-on experience was invaluable, and we’re eager to see the final results of the trial.
As we look to the future, we’re excited about the potential to deepen our relationships in Kenya and continue developing innovative solutions that can make a real difference in people’s lives. This visit was just the beginning, and we’re committed to expanding our efforts to bring advanced, accessible prosthetic care to those who need it most.
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