Dr Atish Shah

Roverlabs Tanzania is tackling the severe lack of access to customised assistive devices in Tanzania, especially for rural communities and women facing stigma. Using a smartphone as a 3D scanner, the company captures limb scans remotely, applies an AI-enabled generative design, and 3D prints customised orthotic devices in Dar es Salaam. This digital, decentralised process removes the need for hospital visits, thereby reducing costs while delivers high-quality devices within days.

The innovation turns any iPhone into a portable 3D scanner, enabling patients—especially women and rural populations—to access customised orthotic devices without visiting a clinic. Using AI-enabled generative design and 3D printing, this produces lighter, stronger devices within three days, compared to weeks in traditional centres. With only three well-equipped workshops in Tanzania and 7–11% of the population living with disabilities, this decentralised, digital approach closes a critical access gap.

We have served over 2,000 patients to date through our AI-enabled, smartphone-based orthotic fabrication platform, demonstrating strong demand and real-world viability. Our operations are currently based in Tanzania, where we work closely with hospitals, community health workers, and rehabilitation centres to expand access to customised assistive devices. Our team of six dedicated specialists in digital design, clinical coordination, and advanced manufacturing continues to drive adoption and scale across the country.