WɔɛLab
A street-level FabLab and technology incubator in Togo that develops open-source 3D printers from e-waste and provides digital fabrication services, focusing on community-driven innovation and technological democracy.
- CEO / Founder
- Sénamé Koffi Agbodjinou
- Team Size
- 11-50
- Stage
- Active
- Total Funding
- $4.6K
- Latest Round
- Crowdfunding
- Key Investors
- Ulule crowdfunding platform
Technology & Products
Key Products
W.Afate 3D printers (over 20 produced from e-waste); FabLab workspace and equipment access; Incubation programs for startups; Training and workshops on 3D printing and digital design
Technological Advantage
Open-source documentation for building 3D printers from e-waste reduces costs and increases local accessibility; community-based model fosters grassroots innovation and adaptation to local needs.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Provides accessible digital fabrication technology and incubation support in an African context, enabling local innovation with low-cost, open-source 3D printing solutions built from recycled materials.
How They Differentiate
Unlike general tech hubs, WɔɛLab specifically focuses on additive manufacturing with open-source 3D printers built from e-waste, targeting low-cost, locally adaptable solutions rather than commercial hardware sales.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Local community members, startups, students, artisans, and researchers in Togo and West Africa
Industry Verticals
Education; Healthcare; Waste Management; Community Development
Competitors
ActivSpaces (Douala, Cameroon); Jokkolabs (Dakar, Senegal)
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Expanded from a 9m² workspace to two buildings in Lomé hosting over 50 youths and about 10 community projects; has produced over 20 W.Afate 3D printers from e-waste.
Major Milestones
Founded in August 2012 as Togo's first technology incubation and fabrication lab; Developed W.Afate 3D printer from e-waste with open-source documentation; Expanded to multiple buildings in Lomé, hosting community projects and startups