Fresh Prints of Banjul initiative brings 3D printing on a rally through Africa
Donating supplies along the way using Prusa machines and Prusament materials
The Fresh Prints of Banjul is more than a fun name – it’s a rallying cry for innovation, creativity, and social impact. As part of the Dresden-Dakar-Banjul Rally 2024, this initiative by Nick and Marcel, two additive manufacturing experts from the Technical University of Munich, combines the thrill of an epic road trip with the transformative power of 3D printing, aiming to make a tangible difference in communities across Africa.
To make this happen, the two are taking along two Original Prusa MK4 3D printers and a bunch of Prusament filament. From setting up a 3D printing lab in Banjul to distributing supplies along the way, the Fresh Prints of Banjul exemplifies the idea that technology can drive positive change.
Welcome to The Fresh Prints of Banjul
When two tech enthusiasts with a shared love for 90s pop culture and cutting-edge technology come together, strange things are bound to happen. Nick and Marcel first connected over seven years ago at EOS GmbH, where their shared passion for travel and 3D printing laid the foundation for a lasting friendship.
With over 20 years of combined experience in the 3D printing industry, the team behind The Fresh Prints of Banjul knows their stuff. From basic Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) printers to industrial-grade Additive Manufacturing (AM) solutions (EOS is also a supporting partner of this initiative), their expertise spans the gamut of this transformative technology. The duo’s background in consulting for high-profile clients and passion for sustainable tech development makes them suited to lead this initiative.
Now, they are racing across continents, but also working to empower local students and teachers with hands-on tech skills by taking the power of 3D printing with them to The Gambia. The two have set out to share this transformative technology with communities beyond their own borders. The Fresh Prints of Banjul brings a unique blend of adventure, charity, and education, aiming to empower communities with tools for frugal innovation. Inspired by a beloved sitcom, this initiative is as fun as it is impactful
The Dresden-Dakar-Banjul Rally 2024
Since 2006, the Dresden-Dakar-Banjul Rally has been bringing adventurers together for a unique cause. Unlike the high-budget Paris-Dakar race, this rally emphasizes cultural exchange and charity under the motto, “It’s the journey that counts!” The route covers 7,000 km, traversing Europe and Africa over 19 days. At the rally’s finish line in Banjul, participating cars are auctioned off, with proceeds funding local charity projects. This sustainable approach ensures the event’s impact extends far beyond the thrill of the journey.
3D printing is more than a hobby; it’s a gateway to innovation. In Banjul, where access to advanced technology is limited, this initiative seeks to introduce 3D printing as a tool for education and problem-solving. By tailoring solutions to local challenges, 3D printing enables communities to create affordable and efficient tools, fostering self-reliance and creativity.
Setting up a 3D printing lab
Collaborating with the Interior Academy School, the Fresh Prints team will establish a fully equipped 3D printing lab in Banjul. Leveraging their years of experience, Nick and Marcel developed an idea to establish a 3D printing lab at the Kobisala school, one of the rally’s supported projects in Banjul where children between the ages of 10 to 15 are taught. The lab will introduce these Gambian pupils to 3D printing, sparking their interest in creative problem-solving, sustainable practices, and innovative technology.
This space will serve as a hub for learning, experimentation, and innovation, with open workshops for students, teachers, and the broader community. Before reaching Africa, the team completed the European leg of the rally, preparing their trusty car – affectionately dubbed “Mucky” – for the adventure ahead.
In addition to many generous donations, the project has received strong backing from key academic and industry players in and around Munich, where the team officially started their journey on November 9. Nick and Marcel garnered support from the TUM Venture Lab initiative at the Technical University of Munich, as well as from Professors Peter Mayr and Katrin Wudy through the TUM.Idea and TUM.Additive initiatives. Alongside them, Prusa Research generously sponsored the 3D printers that will be set up in the lab, and EOS provided the necessary computers.
