A Lilongwe-based innovator Zack Careb Mwale has opened a drone manufacturing company called HY-FLEX TECHNOLOGY which aims at easing transportation challenges in the country.
Mwale told ProjectM that his mission is to become the country’s premier drone manufacturer, with a commitment to establish a comprehensive drone network.
“Making an impact on people has always been our passion and we normally design these drones with autonomous flying machine to assist in delivering crucial supplies where traditional transportation falls short particularly in isolated places to improve accessibility for all.
“The first three drones that we produced have the capacity of carrying 25 to 100 kilogramme, but now we are developing a new converti-plane drone weighing 215 kilograms which will be carrying two people marking a significant advancement in the country’s drone technology,” he said.
The advanced technology cater for among others inspections, surveillance and enhancing safety measures.
He said: “With advanced air control and mapping technologies, Malawi is becoming a hub for cutting-edge UAV technology and considering these advantages the cost-effectiveness of drone operations could reduce financial burden associated with medical logistics including transportation and delivery expenses.”
On job creation, the local drone manufacturer said it has hired about 15 full time and six seasonal workers.
He added that almost 80 percent of the raw materials are sourced locally while 20 percent are imported.
Mwale further revealed that the drone-piloting skills have made a difference as he has completed manufacturing three portable drones and sold them at different prices ranging from K1.8 million above.
Zack Mwale has also developed different innovative devices like door lock and nsima cooker whereby they operate using a cell phone. And it is from the sales of his devices that he has used the money to open up the company.
Mwale, was selected to pursue Electrical and Electronics at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) a few years ago where he dropped out.
