Malawian innovator uses AI to control computers with eyes

Global South World
A young Malawian innovator is developing an AI-powered system that allows people with motor disabilities to control computers using only their eyes.

Summary

Chimwemwe Liwonde, a young Malawian innovator, has developed an AI-powered system that enables people with motor disabilities to control computers using only their eye movements. Demonstrated at the UNiPod innovation facility in Blantyre, the technology moves the cursor and navigates pages without specialised hardware, using only a standard computer camera. The system works offline and aims to provide greater independence for users, eliminating the need for caregivers to perform digital tasks on their behalf. It has already received the Best Social Impact Award at Malawi's National ICT Innovation Awards. FEDOMA's Lyson Mapanga, who tested the system, highlighted its potential to significantly improve productivity for users with disabilities. Efforts are now underway to involve more stakeholders and move the technology beyond its development stage, addressing a critical gap where 56.5% of people with disabilities in Malawi need assistive technology but only 6.1% have access to it.

(Source:Global South World)