Namaste Liners & Socket Education Program
5 days Training

Background

Silicone prosthetic liners are essential for comfortable and sustainable prosthetic use, yet they remain largely unavailable and unaffordable in many African countries. Without quality liners, amputees experience pain, skin injury, and decreased mobility opportunities, particularly where traumatic injuries and non-communicable disease–related amputations are increasing.

Rwanda, while a leader in disability inclusion, still lacks local capacity for liner production and advanced prosthetic clinical training. Strengthening clinical skills and introducing sustainable fabrication methods can dramatically improve patient outcomes and regional self-reliance.

The Training

During an initial visit in January 2025, Operation Namaste conducted stakeholder engagements across Rwanda's prosthetic and rehabilitation sector, culminating in a training session at CEBE attended by clinicians and students.

Objective & Purpose

The certification program establishes Rwanda as a regional hub for sustainable prosthetic liner fabrication. Participants gained:

• Clinical principles of total surface bearing (TSB) socket design
• Hands-on experience in Namaste Liner fabrication
• Competency in liner fitting and patient care protocols
• Certification as local trainers and quality assurance leads

Expected Outcomes

• Certified cohort of prosthetic clinicians
• Local Namaste Liner production capability at CEBE
• Enhanced prosthetic care access for amputees
• Strengthened partnerships advancing disability inclusion

Regional Impact

Training prioritizes clinicians serving conflict-affected regions:

• Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
• Refugee communities in Uganda
• Other East African settings with limited resources