Dr. Lew Lama, cultural anthropologist, spent 5 years (over the course of 25) in Tanzania. He was welcomed by many people there. He got know many people there. He knows their struggles. And he knew of one way that might just help:

Wood-turning lathes made from scrap parts. They would be made with local auto and wood scrap, and be used to create functional items and art for local and tourist trade, promoting microeconomy. He partnered with Drexel University students and advisor Professor James Tangorra to make that a reality.

Last year, a team of seniors, who have since graduated, designed and built several prototypes with input from the Philadelphia Wood Turning Center and from Dr. Lew Lama, an anthropologist and experienced wood turner. The team then traveled to Tanzania and built two lathes, worked with over 20 craftsmen, taught classes at three vocational training schools and an orphanage, and collaborated with more than half a dozen aid NGOs. This year we are improving on our lathe designs, focusing more on learning and teaching the art of turning, and hope to send videos and an improved manual to Tanzania and beyond.

Some Key Documents:

Brochure: Lathes For Africa 2008	Handbook: Appropriate Technology Woodturning Lathe

Tanzania 2008 Lathes For Africa