Design and introduction of pit-latrine assistive devices in Lira, Uganda

This project includes the planning, designing, and present implementation of a humanitarian engineering project named Simple Seat, Better Lives. The goal of this project is to address the problem concerning the use of pit latrines in Uganda, specifically Lira, by individuals who have been handicapped by landmines. The objective is to design portable, low-cost assistive devices that solve physical and socially stigmatic problems for handicapped individuals using a pit-latrine and be constructed in Uganda, by Ugandans. The project began in 2015, with the primary involvement and activities being designing and constructing prototypes. In January 2016, three prototypes were taken to Uganda to receive feedback and design revisions from the actual future users of the devices, handicapped Ugandans. Currently, the project is finalizing multiple designs for implementation and realization. The economic plan includes a livelihood support stipend to train Ugandans at a vocational school so that they can acquire the skills necessary in order to produce these devices. Landmine survivors can subsequently construct and sell the devices to attain financial independence. The project's design constraints include economic, engineering, and social limitations. The skills necessary for similar endeavors are adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and continual maintenance and reinforcement of project vision and goals.