2023 has been a year where Africa’s innovative spirit shone brightly, showcasing a plethora of remarkable inventions. While the world focuses on the ongoing AI revolution, it’s crucial not to overlook the groundbreaking African inventions that have emerged.
These innovations are not just a testament to African creativity but also a response to unique challenges, often born out of necessity and the need for improvisation. This article highlights five notable African inventions of 2023 that have made significant impacts in their respective fields.
FlexiGyn (South Africa)
Invented by Edmund Wessels, a South African biomedical engineer and PhD student, FlexiGyn is a groundbreaking handheld device designed for gynecological examinations and treatments. This innovation eliminates the need for anesthesia and is particularly beneficial in remote areas lacking advanced healthcare infrastructure. FlexiGyn addresses the discomfort caused by traditional, rigid hysteroscopy systems by incorporating large-equipment features into a small, flexible, and battery-powered device. Its unique design, which includes a disposable sheath, enhances efficiency and patient comfort, making reproductive healthcare more accessible and less intrusive for African women.
WAGA Power Pack (Tanzania)
The brainchild of Tanzanian electrical engineer Gibson Kawago, the WAGA Power Pack is a sustainable solution to Tanzania’s unstable electricity supply. This portable device utilizes recycled laptop batteries to power electric bikes, solar lights, and even homes. Kawago’s innovative approach involves repurposing batteries collected from informal waste channels, ensuring they meet manufacturer standards before incorporation. The WAGA Power Pack, available in various voltages, is a testament to African innovation in addressing energy challenges with environmentally conscious solutions.
IFIOK (Nigeria)
Uyai Bassey, a young Nigerian inventor, has introduced IFIOK, a low-cost, futuristic smartphone that challenges conventional design by omitting a physical screen. Instead, it employs a holographic display and a voice-enabled AI assistant, offering an entirely new way of interaction. IFIOK’s unique features, including location detection via IMEI numbers and an in-built lie detector, make it a standout invention. Priced at just N3500 ($2.86), IFIOK is not only innovative but also incredibly affordable, making advanced technology accessible to a broader segment of the Nigerian population.
Kumulus (Morocco)
Kumulus, founded by former Airbus engineer Abderrahmane Ait Ali, is a Moroccan startup that has devised a method to extract water from air using solar power. This technology is a game-changer, especially for communities in arid regions. The Kumulus machine, resembling an amphora and easily transportable, can produce up to 30 liters of mineralized drinking water daily. With a commitment to sustainability and affordability, Kumulus partners with local entities to distribute this clean water at low costs, using a pay-as-you-go model accessible via mobile phones. This invention not only addresses water scarcity but also does so in an environmentally friendly manner.
Kubik (Ethiopia & Kenya)
Kubik, co-founded by Kidus Asfaw and Penda Marre, is transforming the construction landscape in Ethiopia and Kenya by converting recycled plastic waste into affordable building materials. Unlike similar initiatives, Kubik’s business model focuses on scale and affordability, making its products accessible to the African market. By incentivizing waste collection and targeting less sought-after plastics, Kubik has managed to offer its products at prices significantly lower than traditional materials. With a production capacity that removes thousands of kilograms of plastic waste from landfills daily, Kubik is not just an invention but a sustainable movement toward solving Africa’s housing and waste challenges.
Conclusively, the year 2023 has been a remarkable one for African invention, with innovations like FlexiGyn, WAGA Power Pack, IFIOK, Kumulus, and Kubik leading the way. These inventions are not just solutions to local problems but are globally significant contributions that underscore the importance of nurturing and recognizing African creativity and resilience. As the world advances, the unique and impactful innovations emerging from Africa are a reminder of the continent’s potential to significantly contribute to global progress.