The world is in dire need for smart solutions to everyday problems but that does not always mean high tech initiative. In Zimbabwe there are several simple solutions that can be applied to everyday scenarios and I was surprised at how much progress we could make as a nation. It is not always, super-high budget, revolution-type schemes drafted by the social science professionals that lead to long-lasting solutions. Here are some simple discoveries I found that can go a long way into making a big difference.
For instance, in the neighbourhood where I come from, as in many Zimbabwean communities, there is a shortage of access to water outlets, and often people have to lug around large 25L buckets or big water containers over distances that I might be describe as nothing short of uncomfortable. I’m just waiting for the genius who is going to google “Q-drum” and give everybody a break. All it is, is a simple rollable device that contains just as much water as the fore-mentioned containers but doesn’t have the hassle. It’s cheap, convenient and it’s one of things that I think would go a long way into changing the lives of many Zimbabweans. It is these simple things that I think could really change our lives. Here, have a look, this says it all:
Another burning issue in most developing countries is child mortality. According to UNICEF, 17 000 children under the age of 5 die each day and the majority of them are in Sub-Saharan Africa (where we live). Some of the causes of death include respiratory problems which are the leading cause of infant mortality. Developers, philanthropists and healthcare enthusiasts have invested into a device known as “the penguin”. This is a simple plastic suction device that can remove obstructions from a baby’s airways shortly after birth and yes, it’s shaped like an actual penguin. This could go a long way in preserving the lives of many infants all over the world. Currently, several Zimbabweans do not have access to proper healthcare facilities and many childbirths occur at home or worse areas. This is a step forward in increasing infant mortality in our nation.
Lastly, the Gravity Light – that’s right – a light that’s powered by gravity. According to Wired UK, it has the potential to lift people out of poverty, as well as help prevent illness and injuries associated with traditional lamps. It’s a better alternative to Kerosene which consumes 10 to 20% of some household incomes and goes a long way to changing the lives of some people. In our country, think of all the lengths it could go in changing the way we live. To our environment, in live preservation by riding homes of open flame sources of light and heat. For a concept still in development it shines hope in the lives of those affected. Development doesn’t always have to be large scale, ground-breaking or just plain old expensive. Smart solutions like these pave the Yellow Brick Road that some communities need and bring them a step closer to being more developed.
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