3D Printing wrist support
Africa’s path to industry 4.0 is long and complex but there is light at the end of the tunnel. In 2018, it was estimated that about 40% of used cars from the European Union, Japan, and the United States are exported to Africa. This has generated a rising demand for auto spare parts in Africa and added pressure in the already fragile supplier chain. Used car dealerships and repair shops cannot provide replacement parts for older vehicles, which is the root cause of vehicle malfunction or road accidents. This is becoming less of a problem as local startups are findings ways to produce rare spare parts with 3D printing.
Even though 3D printing has not been around for years, it has positive effects on the supply chain. We think it has emerged as one of the most disruptive innovations to impact the logistics industry and the global supply chain in the African context. In 2017, the purchase of 3D printing devices grew by 23% and it is expected to increase over the years.
More African countries see value in investing in technologies of the future to shorten the supply chain and improving the bottleneck of spare parts scarcity. 3D printing is changing the business model of innovation as it enables rapid prototype of local ideas that address known challenges.
The youthfortechnology foundation founded by Njedeka Harry is aiming to educate young Africans on this technology of the future via the project 3dafrica.org.
There are already major projects leading the way in Africa. and the number is growing fast as the cost of 3D printers is decreasing, the quality of the print is increasing and the base material includes metal and carbon fiber.
- In Togo, a 3D printer made of electronic waste has used to create product mockups for local businesses.
- In Uganda, as a result of a partnership with Canadian institutions and local hospitals. 3D printing is used to fabricate prosthetics limbs for amputees
- In Nigeria, ElePhab provides parts for Nigerian research institutes to decrease the cost of local manufacturing and avoid shipping costs of parts coming from overseas.
- In Rwanda, Great Lakes Energy 3D prints packaging and storage solutions of its solar products
Applications for 3D printing in Africa are in every sectors
Local and international businesses should start innovating in Africa using 3D printing as an accelerator. However, it is important that more Africans get involved to drive the right discussion and define the key or priority problems to focus on.
Are you already involved with 3D printing in Africa ? which sectors?
Chargement ...