In a significant breakthrough, Aubrey Kachinjika, a 20-year-old student at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) Bunda Campus, has developed an innovative solar powered E-FLOOD System, an AI-powered disaster detection and early warning technology designed to protect communities from climate-related hazards.
The system, which detects multiple threats, including flash and riverine floods as well as lightning strikes, delivers real-time alerts and flood forecasts via phone calls, SMS and siren alarms to ensure timely action.
“The idea came after I was once affected with the floods when my family we were staying closer to Diamphwi river,” explained Kachinjika.
Aubrey’s work has attracted recognition and support from key government departments, including the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) and the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, who have partnered with him to pilot and refine the system.
“For me, innovation is not just about technology. It’s about saving lives, protecting livelihoods and inspiring other young people to rise to the challenges facing our nation,” said Kachinjika
The E-FLOOD System was recognised among top three solutions at the Future M Project under Save the Children and Aubrey has successfully completed two pilot phases in Salima District.
The system is now entering its third phase, where it will be scaled up and commercialided before the next rainy season.
Save the Children Director of Operations Frank Mwafulirwa described Kachinjika as an amazing example of how adversity breeds character.
The NGO supported Kachinjika with K2.5 million funding.
