AI for prosthetic care – Tanzania
Dinsdag 10 februari 2026This project supports local prosthetic makers in Tanzania with 3D technology and AI-supported software for designing upper leg prostheses. At the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center, they learn how to work with 3D scans, a guided design process, and an algorithm that helps them create well-fitting prostheses
suitable prosthetic sockets. This enables even less experienced prosthetists to manufacture consistent, high-quality prostheses. Thanks to this combination of training, technology, and local collaboration, people with amputations have access to affordable, suitable, and sustainable prosthetic care.
Goal:
Access to prostheses
Theme:
Rehabilitation and support
Location:
Moshi, Tanzania
Health pioneers:
Iris Sterkenburg & Merel van der Stelt
Project
Goal
Results
Project
In Tanzania, access to quality prosthetic care is limited by a shortage of experienced prosthetists and resources. This project introduces 3D printing technology and AI-supported software at KCMC, enabling local prosthetists to design and produce above-knee prostheses for amputees more efficiently and consistently.
Goal
Functional AI-supported software for designing upper leg prosthetic sockets, tested and implemented within the KCMC. Training and collaboration with local professionals increases production capacity and creates sustainable knowledge building, giving more patients access to well-fitting prostheses.
Results
- An AI algorithm for thigh prosthetic sockets, trained with local data
- Local prosthetic manufacturers trained in 3D design and AI use
- Reduced lead time for prosthetic production
- Improved quality and consistency of prosthetics
- More patients mobile and independent
Health pioneers Iris Sterkenburg & Merel van der Stelt
Iris Sterkenburg and Merel van der Stelt are health pioneers affiliated with the Radboudumc 3D Lab. Iris is a PhD candidate focusing on the development and validation of AI-supported solutions for prosthetic care. Merel is a project manager responsible for implementation and collaboration with local partners. Together, they are working on sustainable, scalable innovations that make prosthetic care more accessible worldwide.
Check out their project and motivation in the video below:
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