Africa is experiencing a surge in technological advancements, with several countries emerging as unexpected leaders in the tech industry. While global attention often centres on social media trends, significant innovations are quietly reshaping Africa’s tech landscape. iMoSyS, an ICT company based in Malawi, is at the forefront of this transformation. By developing practical applications, iMoSyS is tackling societal challenges and saving valuable time, a critical resource in Africa. Their efforts in process automation, sensor technology, and real-time data collection are revolutionizing industries and boosting efficiency, particularly in health asset management.
Recently, iMoSyS partnered with the Impetus Growth Group (IGG) to extend its reach into Zimbabwe. This collaboration, led by iMoSyS CEO Mayamiko Nkoloma and IGG Founder Tendai Nheta, aims to introduce the Alonda application in Zimbabwe. This comprehensive app is designed to offer a range of services, including health, food delivery, taxi services, and emergency assistance. Scheduled to launch in August 2024, Alonda is expected to have a significant impact on Zimbabwe’s tech sector.
A World Bank report highlights the tech industry as one of the fastest-growing sectors in Zimbabwe, contributing significantly to both employment and GDP. This growth extends beyond Harare, reaching regions like Bulawayo and Mutare, indicating a nationwide digital transformation.
In a recent development, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has approved the licensing of Elon Musk’s Starlink, allowing SpaceX’s satellite unit to operate in the country. President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced on social media that this decision will enable the deployment of high-speed, low-cost, low Earth orbit (LEO) internet infrastructure across Zimbabwe, especially in rural areas. Starlink will partner exclusively with IMC Communications to facilitate this rollout.
Tendai Nheta, Founder of Impetus Growth Group (IGG), emphasized that this is an ideal time to launch the Alonda App in Zimbabwe. “The country is gearing up for a technology boom, and we can’t afford to lag behind,” said Nheta.In Malawi, the Alonda app has already made a substantial impact, changing the public’s attitude towards technology. Its adoption has been swift, with efforts to onboard every Malawian. The tech-savvy Gen Z population has been instrumental in this shift, and it is only a matter of time before a broader network of Malawians is connected.
One of Alonda app’s most innovative features is its emergency services. Users can send alerts to emergency responders by pressing a panic button for their specific emergency, providing their name, type of emergency, and live GPS location. An SMS backup ensures alerts reach responders even if they do not have the app installed. This platform connects users directly to emergency services, contacts, and rapid response teams, offering a vital safety net in critical situations.
Beyond emergency services, Alonda offers various essential services, including towing, ambulance, waste management, mobility, fire response, and property maintenance. The app is making life easier, safer, and more convenient for Malawians by providing localised solutions with significant impact. For example, the taxi booking feature works like Uber, offering a seamless transportation experience. The health feature allows users to call an ambulance with a single button press, significantly reducing waiting times.
Given the challenges of Africa’s road networks, the Alonda Tow service is particularly beneficial, helping stranded motorists quickly connect with nearby tow companies. This reduces the need for assistance from far away, making travel and recovery more efficient.
iMoSyS’s innovative approach and the success of the Alonda app in Malawi demonstrate the potential for technology to drive progress and improve lives across Africa. As the Alonda super app prepares to launch in Zimbabwe, there is great anticipation for the positive changes it will bring to the tech landscape and its impact on daily life.