Statistics show that 4.4% of Zambian children aged 2–17 years live with some form of disability, and many can experience exclusion from education, healthcare, and social welfare as a result. This can have long-term consequences, with the legacies of these inequalities lasting into adulthood.
APTERS has been committed to improving access to mobility equipment for Zambian children with disabilities for over 30 years. The nongovernmental organisation (NGO) began as collaboration between three skilled Zambians with physical disabilities and a British physiotherapist. Together, they aimed to create affordable mobility aids such as special chairs and standing frames, as well as splints, wedges, and walkers.
How to make mobility aids from recycled materials
“It can be difficult to find this type of equipment in Zambia,” explained AGS Zambia Deputy Branch Manager, Helene Guidez, “so they build it themselves.” The specialised equipment is made from as many reusable materials as possible, including paper, cardboard, and maize, which acts as a glue.
Three cardboard pieces are glued together for reinforcement, creating a sturdy material that is cut into the frames designed by physiotherapists. To ensure they are water resistant, they are then covered with oil-based paint, and cushions are sewn for added comfort.
This method not only reduces cardboard and paper waste, but also makes the devices cheaper to create. Their cost is then subsidised further through donations and the sale of hand-made toys. This makes the aids more accessible to those who could not otherwise afford them.
“APTERS shares a premises with University Teaching Hospital and works hand-in-hand with hospital staff,” explained AGS Zambia Imports Manager, Bridget Zulu. “When children go to the hospital for physiotherapy, and the doctors see there is a need for special equipment, they contact APTERS.”
The organisation produces around between 1200-1500 aids each year. It also provides employment for those with disabilities. Having a disability can lead to disadvantages when looking for work, and many differently abled Zambians work in the APTERS production department.
AGS Zambia re-uses cardboard responsibly
As a removals company, AGS Zambia is a perfect partner for APTERS, so far delivering more than 10m3 of used moving boxes to create equipment. The AGS team is already committed to recycling and reducing waste, always re-using cardboard boxes in their local moves where possible. When they are no longer usable, APTERS can now repurpose the material for an important cause.
At AGS Movers, we believe in making a positive impact beyond just relocation. Support sustainable solutions for a brighter future – request your moving quote today.
