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Ethiopia has taken an important step forward in modernizing rehabilitation and assistive technology services, as the Ethiopian Physical Support Service, in collaboration with Humanity & Inclusion (HI), officially launched a 3D technology-assisted physical support product initiative.
The program, introduced through a dedicated training and capacity-building program, aims to strengthen professional skills within the sector, improve service quality, and expand access to technology-enabled solutions for people who rely on physical support products.
A Major Step Toward Modern Rehabilitation Services
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Demisew Haheis, Deputy CEO of the Ethiopian Physical Support Service, highlighted the impact of 3D-supported production in transforming the way services are delivered.
He explained that introducing physical support products aided by 3D technology is contributing to the modernization of physical support services, ensuring that people in need can benefit from advanced, technology-driven solutions. He emphasized that the initiative is not only about equipment or software, but about empowering rehabilitation professionals and solving key challenges currently affecting the sector.
According to Dr. Demisew, the introduction of 3D technology is strengthening the organization’s ability to provide technology-supported services to Ethiopian communities, while also helping build long-term professional capacity.
Training That Builds Skills and Accelerates Services
Participants of the training described the program as highly impactful, noting that it supports the delivery of agile, timely, and efficient services.
They shared that the training is designed not only to increase manpower and improve workflow speed, but also to expand professional capabilities in modern digital methods — ensuring physical support product services can now be developed and delivered using 3D-based processes.
This approach is expected to improve both the consistency and responsiveness of services, helping rehabilitation teams better meet the growing demand for physical support products across Ethiopia.
Official Launch Marked by Key Stakeholders
At the closing ceremony, the successful completion of the training was followed by an official launch event, attended by key leaders representing rehabilitation and national health priorities.
The physical support product initiative was formally launched by:
- Dr. Demisew Haheis, Deputy Chief Executive, Ethiopian Physical Support Service
- Mr. Ermias Mulatu, Rehabilitation Medical Service Desk, Ministry of Health
- Mr. Rahael, Country Director, Humanity & Inclusion (HI)
Their participation reflects strong institutional support for advancing rehabilitation services through digital manufacturing tools and structured professional development.
Strengthening Ethiopia’s Assistive Technology Future
The launch of this 3D technology-assisted physical support product program signals a promising shift toward more modern, scalable, and patient-centered rehabilitation services in Ethiopia.
By combining Humanity & Inclusion’s expertise in inclusive development and rehabilitation with national leadership from the Ethiopian Physical Support Service and the Ministry of Health, the initiative represents a model of collaboration that can improve outcomes for people living with disability and mobility challenges.
As Ethiopia continues investing in capacity-building and modern production methods, 3D technology has the potential to become a major driver of improved access, faster delivery, and higher-quality physical support products nationwide.
