Wheelchairs
A wheelchair provides personal mobility for an estimated 65 million people in the world.  However, in most developing countries this simple device is beyond the reach of many.  For those with wheelchairs problems abound with poor servicing, lack of proper facilities, insufficient support and often the wheelchairs donated are poorly designed or not robust enough for the terrain.  By providing appropriate, well-designed and fitted wheelchairs will enhance the lives and mobility of thousands.

Problem with donated wheel chairs
Many well-meaning western organisations donate wheelchairs but unfortunately many are not designed for the terrain in Sierra Leone or fit the individual correctly. 

Much of the road infrastructure has been destroyed and in the rural environment the roads are no more than dirt tracks which are washed away every rainy season.  These conditions require sturdy well builtwheel chairs which are practical yet simple enough to repair using local resources. 

WeelchairDesigns
There are two wheelchair types Rotary Africa Mobility Project (RAMP) would like to fund building Tricycles (PETS) and hand made Wheelchairs.  Both of which are designed for the tough life and terrain and yet practical to carry goods and items for example water for the home and goods to market.
Steve Perr from RAMP says “The tricycles are hand cranked and have an area where people can put things – even five-gallon drums of water. It means the disabled person can be useful.
"The wheelchairs we're making have heavy-duty tubes and nothing to break. They last at least five years, unlike the donated ones from other well meing organisiations which last one or two years at the most. They are a much more satisfactory piece of equipment, and we want to persuade people not to send over a wheelchair that will break to Sierra Leone but to have one made in the country instead."
These wheelchairs will make a tremendous difference to individuals and their families

Built to personal specifications
Wheelchairs need to be built specifically for the individual.  If the wheel chair does fit the user it could lead to secondary problems such as Arthitics, pressure sores and infections.