Life Changing Prosthetics that Ease Daily Activities

By Eddah Waithaka

According to the World Health Organisation, 1.5 million people undergo limb amputation every year, with the major causes being diabetes and road accidents. In Kenya, the number of people needing prosthesis is increasing by the day.

A number of prosthetic companies have been on the forefront in helping to curtail the number of amputees who are unable to access quality prosthetic services in the country.

One such company is Prothea Kenya which has been able to expand efforts to improve the lives of persons with physical disabilities in Kenya.

With their 3D technology, the company has astronomical potential to transform Kenya’s curative and rehabilitative health service delivery. In just 10 months’ time, they have been able to improve the health condition of almost 100 Kenyan patients by giving them the highest quality devices, at the lowest possible cost.

Given the high volume of patients, Prothea Kenya recently moved to a new workshop in Kilimani.

In a press statement released on 8th of February, 2023, the organization noted that they are organizing the official opening of their new prosthetics and orthotics workshop. This opportunity will enable the organization to showcase their 3D printing technology and innovative workflow.

Speaking during a prosthetic workshop on February 8 in Nairobi, Alex Kisyanga, the chief orthopedic technologist at the Ministry of Health, said that the government is committed to supporting prosthetic companies and other key players through creating an enabling environment for them.

The chief also said that this will be done through the Ministry of Health.

“The Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Strategy 2022-26 has set clear objectives on what the sector wants to achieve,” he noted.

“Companies that provide prosthetic services are welcome to claim their space and do what they aspire to do to make sure the amputees in the country are well taken care of.”

In an interview with one of the beneficiaries of Prothea Kenya’s services Tessie Jepkogei’s mum says despite the challenges her daughter has, she has always been proud of her and is Tessie’s biggest support system alongside her teachers at Limo School.

This she noted that thanks to the advanced prosthetic limbs her daughter has the chance to go about her daily activities with ease.

Also Read: https://switchmedianews.wordpress.com/2024/02/05/interfaith-groups-unite-to-discuss-on-the-rise-of-femicide/