Additive Manufacturing: A Catalyst for Economic Development in Zimbabwe

Oscar Gwatidzo*, Godfrey Tigere**, David Ndiyamba***
*-** Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, Harare Institute of Technology, Harare, Zimbabwe.
*** Department of Mechanical Engineering, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe.
Periodicity:July - September'2024
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jme.14.3.21551

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) or 3D printers (3DP) present a transformative opportunity for agro-based third-world countries like Zimbabwe. By enabling localized, on-demand production, AM/3D can revolutionize various sectors, including agriculture, food processing, and rural development. This study explores the current state of implementation of AM, challenges being faced by the industries in implementing AM technologies, and success stories in the nearby countries like South Africa and Botswana. Furthermore, the authors explored the opportunities where AM can be used. In the agricultural sector, the authors delved into specific applications, including the creation of precision agricultural tools, custom-fit prosthetic devices for farm workers, and innovative packaging solutions for perishable goods. Additionally, the study discusses the positive economic implications of AM adoption, including job creation, reduced reliance on imports, and the promotion of sustainable practices. By leveraging AM, 3rd world countries like Zimbabwe can unlock new avenues for growth, improve livelihoods, and enhance their global competitiveness. Furthermore, the study draws up the implementation framework of AM technology in Zimbabwe's agriculture, highlighting the need to involve institutions of higher learning and research to involve all provinces.

Keywords

Additive Manufacturing, 3D Printing, Agriculture, Economic Development, Sustainable Practices.

How to Cite this Article?

Gwatidzo, O., Tigere, G., and Ndiyamba, D. (2024). Additive Manufacturing: A Catalyst for Economic Development in Zimbabwe. i-manager’s Journal on Mechanical Engineering, 14(3), 19-30. https://doi.org/10.26634/jme.14.3.21551

References

[8]. Mellor, S. (2014). An Implementation Framework for Additive Manufacturing (Doctoral dissertation, University of Exeter, United Kingdom).
[14]. Simkins, M. (2008). 3-D printing a Goo Goo. Technology and Learning-Dayton, 28(8), 48.
[18]. Wohlers, T. (2009). Wohlers Report 2009. Wholers Associates.
If you have access to this article please login to view the article or kindly login to purchase the article

Purchase Instant Access

Single Article

North Americas,UK,
Middle East,Europe
India Rest of world
USD EUR INR USD-ROW
Pdf 35 35 200 20
Online 15 15 200 15
Pdf & Online 35 35 400 25

Options for accessing this content:
  • If you would like institutional access to this content, please recommend the title to your librarian.
    Library Recommendation Form
  • If you already have i-manager's user account: Login above and proceed to purchase the article.
  • New Users: Please register, then proceed to purchase the article.