There is limited data and knowledge on assistive technology in low-income countries. This goes for demand, supply, quality and effect of assistive technology on the welfare of disabled individuals. Critics have for instance argued that wheelchairs supplied in low-income countries in many instances are sub-standard (Pearlman, 2006). Armstrong et al. (2007) state that two of the most common methods for distribution of wheelchairs are either mass produced in high- or middle-income countries or used wheelchairs delivered with minimal service provision. Furthermore, for wheelchairs that are damaged, replacement parts are typically not available. Most donated products are originally designed for indoor use and do not perform well for active users in rugged environments (Mukherjee and Samanta, 2005). Locally adapted and small-scale production found in low-income countries has amounted to around 50,000 units during the last two decades.
Armstrong, W, Reisinger, KD, & Smith, WK (2007). Evaluation of CIR-Whirlwind Wheelchair and service provision in Afghanistan, Disability and Rehabilitation, 29 (11–12), 935–948.
Mukherjee, G, & Samanta, A (2005). Wheelchair charity: A useless benevolence in community-based rehabilitation, Disability and Rehabilitation, 27, 591–596.
Pearlman J, Cooper, R, Krizack, M, Lindsley, A, et al. (2006). Towards the development of an effective technology transfer of wheelchairs to developing countries, Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 1 (1–2), 103–110.
