Tech in Africa
Simbona Africa has captured global attention with their UVC room sterilizer. The startup based in Jimma was awarded a $15,000 grant on behalf of their contribution in the fight against Covid-19. The funds came from Villgro Kenya and are aimed at ramping up production.
Simbona Africa intends to use the new invention for sterilization in hospital wards and medical equipment. The UV apparatus has a powerful 8-watt lamp that releases high-intensity ultraviolet light which eliminates all pathogens, microorganisms, and viruses once it strikes the surface.
The powerful UVC sterilization can cover a 40 meter-square room space and has a potential for use in different environments. For instance, schools, kitchens, vehicles, office rooms, and medical tools disinfections. To guarantee the safety of all users, the material to be disinfected is kept in a room and locked away wherein the device is switched on for 5-10 minutes.
Habtamu Abafoge, the founder of Simbona Africa, disclosed the safety precautions they have taken for their workers by offering training and giving them a user manual. Habtamu has an extensive biomedical engineering background and has thus far produced four of such devices which have all been sold to the Ministry of Health.
Simbona Africa is currently shortlisted among the 12 finalists of the COVID-19 challenge grant courtesy of UNDP’s Accelerator Lab in collaboration with the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, (MiNT).
