Can university-industry-government collaborations drive a 3D printing revolution in Africa? A triple helix model of technological leapfrogging in additive manufacturing

The protracted disruption of Covid-19 pandemic on global supply chains has renewed calls for a new model manufacturing that removes the need centralised high-volume production and large inventory stocking. Drawing ideas from Triple Helix university-industry-government innovation, this paper analyses prospects 3D revolution in Africa, continent which was disproportionately affected rounds international border restrictions imposed response to Omicron variant virus. Taking conceptual approach supported with case illustrations, reviews evolution printing technologies, disruptive impact they have had traditional chain expansion market. Highlighting favourable conditions technological leapfrogging within African context, proposes integrative framework explains how emergence hybrid organisations can drive promising future -with small medium enterprises playing key role.