People living with visual impairment in Malawi may soon experience greater independence and safety, thanks to a newly developed smart walking stick designed to help them navigate their surroundings with ease.
The device, created by a Mzuzu University (Mzuni) Third-Year student Charles Chiyombo, is called the “Njira Walking Stick.”
Equipped with electronic sensors, the walking stick can detect obstacles and alert users to potential dangers, making movement safer and more confident for those with visual challenges.
Chiyombo, a Bachelor of Physics and Electronics student, said the innovation was inspired by the difficulties people with visual impairment face in their daily lives.
“This device has been primarily developed to act as a friend to people with visual impairment, something they would rely upon when walking,” he said.
The Njira Walking Stick uses electronic technology to identify obstacles and provide timely warnings, helping users avoid accidents and navigate independently.
According to Chiyombo, the device has the potential to reduce more than 90 percent of mobility challenges faced by visually impaired individuals.
“This is not just a simple walking stick, but something that can be relied upon,” he added.
The device was developed using locally sourced and pre-manufactured materials, ensuring affordability and accessibility.
The Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA) has since praised the innovation, describing it as a major step forward in empowering people with visual impairment.
“Devices like these are capable of empowering people who are struggling with visual impairment by reducing their dependence on others for movement,” said MACODA spokesperson Harriet Kachimanga.
Plans are underway to begin large-scale production of the Njira Walking Stick to reach more users across the country.
