Built in Kenya for Kenya.
A project to address the shortage of affordable and functional wheelchairs in Kenya by creating a sustainable local manufacturing model, reducing dependency on costly imports and ensuring access to appropriate Assistive Technology for disabled people.
Made AT Kenya
Context
Global
An estimated 75 million people globally who are entitled to a wheelchair live in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs), yet at least nine in ten of those people are denied this right, in part due to a chronic global shortage of appropriate and affordable wheelchairs.
In Kenya
Around 100,000 people in Kenya would benefit from using a wheelchair. However, 95% of those people don’t have access to an appropriate wheelchair- one that meets their needs and environment, provides proper fit and support, and is safe and durable.
Made AT Kenya provides a scalable, sustainable manufacturing model that addresses the shortage of affordable and functional wheelchairs in Kenya. The project aims to establish a reliable national supply of safe, durable, and affordable wheelchairs, reducing dependency on costly imported or donated products.
Phase One to Three (2022–2025) focused on building stakeholder and strategic partnerships, designing and prototyping the IMARA wheelchair (adult), field-testing with peer trainers, conducting market research, and financial modeling, as well as appointing a manufacturing partner.
Phase Four (subject to funding) will include introducing a children’s wheelchair and developing a business model for nationwide production.
The project is implemented in partnership with the Government of Kenya and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, and funded by Pro Victimis Foundation, AT Scale, and Equally Able Foundation.
Why it Matters
Made AT Kenya supports the rights of people with disabilities by enhancing access to mobility and assistive technology. By establishing a credible market and revenue stream for assistive technology in low- and middle-income countries, the project strengthens the local healthcare and disability ecosystem. It reduces dependency on costly or unsuitable donated/imported wheelchairs, promotes local innovation, and ensures that safe, durable, and appropriate wheelchairs are reliably available.
The first product planned, the IMARA (“Strong” in Swahili), will roll off manufacturing lines in 2025. It is designed for robustness, adaptability, and ease of use—suitable for both men and women, indoor and outdoor use, and compatible with 24” or 26” wheels.
The IMARA is foldable for transport, locally fixable, and competitively priced, making it accessible to a wide population. Extensive user trials and two prototype iterations have ensured the wheelchair meets user needs while remaining appropriate for Kenyan manufacturing.
Interested in finding out more about the Imara? Please register your interest below and one of the team will be in touch. Thank you.