Computer whizzes create app, make community safer
Sihle Manaka (24) with his friends Tshepo Nage and Onalerona Mphuthi have created a mobile app that could alert your loved ones when you are in distress.
Tsakane – Amajita has created an application to help neighbours feel safer ekasi.
Bachelor of Science graduates Sihle Manaka, Tshepo Nage and Onalerona Mphuthi used their knowledge in computer sciences and information systems to create Sechaba, a mobile app.
“It’s a community utility app.
The aim was to bring the community together to combat crime,” explains twenty-four-year-old Manaka.
He says that the idea to create the app came as the guys noticed that most people become victims of crime when they are alone.
“There was a time when people used whistles to attract attention.
We used the same concept using smartphones.”
The application can be downloaded on most Android phones.
“When something happens to you, you need a quick way to alert people to coming to your rescue.”
Sechaba provides the user with a panic button that alerts the ‘trust circle’ when the user feels vulnerable.
“The ‘trust circle’ could be your neighbours or friends you choose and there is no limit to the number of people you can have on the app.
“Anyone you know will be alerted and will come to your rescue if you need them.”
Manaka adds the app also serves the purpose of disseminating community announcements.
“We do obituaries that also provide GPS coordinates for venues for funerals or memorial services.”
He believes that Sechaba can be a one-stop shop for important information in every location.
“We also make it easy for people to get emergency numbers.”
Manaka says they were mindful to make the app as simple and as light as possible.
“It would cost less than 5MB to download the free app (standard rates apply).
And we tested it on our parents to check if it is user-friendly for older people.”
