Jaipur Foot, the world-renowned provider of prosthetic limbs, has extended its humanitarian efforts to Ethiopia, bringing hope and mobility to thousands of people with disabilities. Founded in 1975, the non-profit organization is celebrated globally for its innovative, low-cost prosthetic solutions tailored for lower limb disabilities.
This week, Jaipur Foot launched a fully sponsored camp in Semera, Afar, in collaboration with the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and under the guidance of the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare. The camp is the latest in a series of initiatives aimed at providing prosthetic limbs to those in need, with the next stop planned for Tigray.
Ambassador Satish C. Mehta Executive President of the organization and who is leading the team in Ethiopia said “Jaipur Foot’s artificial limb, recognized as the world’s most used prosthetic limb, supports the three essential movements of the foot, making it exceptionally flexible and functional. This technology has enabled many recipients to lead normal and active lives. Despite the advanced technology, the cost of a Western-designed prosthetic limb can reach up to $15,000, whereas a Jaipur Foot limb costs merely $100 in India, thanks to the organization’s efficient use of funds and dedication to accessibility.”
The organization’s innovative approach includes mobile workshops that overcome geographical and accessibility challenges, ensuring that no one in need goes without help. These efforts are supported by a robust international presence, with camps in 42 countries and permanent centers in locations including Jamaica, Pakistan, Kenya, Nepal, and potentially soon in Ethiopia.
In 2016, Jaipur Foot began its mission in Ethiopia, with the first camp held in Mekele. Since then, the organization has provided close to 2,000 limbs free of charge in the country, including 377 limbs with the support of JMC, an Indian construction company operating in Ethiopia, and conducted additional camps, and a government-sponsored camp in 2019 that supplied 538 limbs in Addis Ababa. The latest Semera camp aims to fit up to 650 limbs in two weeks, reflecting the critical ongoing need in the country where hundreds of thousands of people require limb replacements.
Ambassador Anil K. Rai Indian Ambassador to Ethiopia said “Jaipur Foot seeks to establish a permanent center in Ethiopia to increase its reach and ensure long-term sustainability. This expansion would not only provide prosthetic limbs but also facilitate technology transfer and skill development, crucial for building local capacity to address mobility challenges.”
