Turning paper waste into hope: Assistive Paper Technology transforms lives of disabled children

To address this challenge, a group of young individuals has adopted the Assistive Paper Technology (APT) program.

Their mission is to improve the quality of life for children with disabilities, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 3, which focuses on ensuring well-being for all.

Their initiative also takes environmental health into account, promoting safe disposal and repurposing of paper waste to reduce pollution and the effects of hazardous chemicals on human health.

Jessica Matumbai-therapist, demonstrating how APT works

At BethanyKids Centre, these youths craft eco-friendly chairs and standing aids from various paper waste materials, offering a sustainable alternative to burning paper waste, which releases harmful gases into the atmosphere.

Their work not only benefits children but also contributes to a cleaner environment.

In Kinamba, Naivasha, Nakuru County, we meet 13-year-old Ann Nyambura, who is recovering from hydrocephalus—a condition that affected her ability to stand. Ann spends most of her life in a seated position.

Despite the challenges, her condition has strengthened the bond between her and her father, Steve Njoroge, who remains determined to improve her quality of life.

"I have been taking Ann to Kijabe Clinic since she was very young. When she reached the age of walking, I tirelessly sought a solution to help her stand, as the disease left her legs too weak. Not long ago, BethanyKids Centre made a standing aid for my daughter, and she has improved significantly," says Steve.

A few kilometers away in Kayole village, Naivasha, a once-gloomy spirit has been lifted. Mercy Nyambura is now hopeful, seeing the progress of her two-year-old son, Gian, who has cerebral palsy.

"We constantly asked around about ways to help Gian sit comfortably. We finally found a solution," says Mercy.

The process of making paper-based sitting and standing aids begins at various paper waste collection stations, such as the Kijabe Kahawa Café. Ernest Kariuki, a member of the APT team, understands the value of paper waste beyond its face value.

He loads heaps of boxes and paper waste into a van, transporting them to the sorting area at the BethanyKids Centre workshop, located within the Kijabe Hospital grounds.

At the workshop, the collected paper waste is sorted and stacked into layers using a sticky wheat flour paste, then left to dry.

"We layer the boxes to create thick boards about 2 to 2.5 cm thick. Our therapists take the children's measurements, which help us determine the required device specifications. We then draw the design on the board surface and cut it accordingly," explains Steve Macharia, one of the engineers.

Steve Macharia at paper waste sorting points

For two years now, their workshop has received numerous orders. The process involves measuring, cutting, shaping, sticking, and tying materials—sometimes using old elastic stockings—to transform paper waste into assistive devices.

Zipporah Muthoni, who oversees finishing touches, explains, "We use braided papers collected from community salons to smoothen and tighten the edges of the devices. The white and brown papers are spread over the entire device to strengthen and refine it."

Job Matumbai, the APT Project Manager at BethanyKids, explains that the team was trained on how to assess, fabricate, and fit these devices. Their work is known through referrals, particularly for children under five who cannot yet use wheelchairs.

Jessica Matumbai, a resident occupational therapist, expresses her excitement over the project's impact.

"Many families lack access to special equipment, leaving children confined to beds or sofas all day. This makes movement difficult and, in some cases, leads to children becoming stuck in one position, making it even harder for their caregivers to carry them," she explains.

Jessica highlights the importance of assistive devices:

"Many of these children have weak head control and struggle to hold their heads up. That’s why we design seats with a special wedge underneath, providing a firm and secure surface while allowing them to remain upright and engaged with their surroundings.

They also suffer from poor nutrition and constipation, which can cause stomach pain. We encourage caregivers to keep them upright for at least 30 minutes to an hour daily to aid digestion and support overall growth.

Sitting and standing Aids at work

For standing aids, even if a child is too weak to stand independently, the device provides the necessary support. Straps and a backrest help keep them in position, allowing them to strengthen their bones and muscles over time. These aids often come with tables, enabling children to engage in activities and participate in daily life."

Through the Assistive Paper Technology innovation, parents are slowly regaining hope as their children gain the ability to sit upright and stand, improving their interaction with the world around them.

Steve Njoroge affirms, "Since getting the standing aid last year, my daughter has shown remarkable progress. Before, she never stood on her own, but now, one of her legs is beginning to support her weight. We are hopeful that she will eventually stand independently."

For Mercy Nyambura, the assistive chair has made her daily life easier, allowing her to complete household chores without constantly worrying about Gian’s posture.

According to Job Matumbai, the devices cost only 2,000 Kenyan shillings. However, he assures that no child in need will be turned away.

"If you cannot afford the 2,000 shillings, we are still happy to provide the device. If you have cartons or braided papers, please bring them to us, or let us know where you are, and we will collect them. This is one way we can save the planet while ensuring children receive the support they need," he appeals.

Burning organic materials like paper releases hazardous gases that not only harm air quality and contribute to global warming but also leave chemical residues that degrade soil health.

For BethanyKids Centre, their mission is clear: love for humanity and nature heals the mind, soul, and body.

Their dream is to support as many parents as possible by providing sitting and standing aids for children across Kenya, all while promoting environmental sustainability in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.