AI Eye-Control System Grants Digital Independence

A young Malawian innovator is developing an AI-powered system that allows people with motor disabilities to control computers using only their eyes.

Chimwemwe Liwonde demonstrated the technology at the UNiPod innovation facility in Blantyre on Tuesday, moving a computer cursor and navigating pages through eye movements.

For Liwonde, the aim is to give users greater independence when accessing the digital world.

“Currently, for a motor-disabled user to use the computer, they rely on caregivers who may perform the task on their behalf. For example, a motor-disabled user may dictate, ‘I want to open this app,’ or ‘I want to type this.’ So actually, I developed this innovation to give them back their independence and access to the digital world,” Liwonde explained.

Eye Control Without Specialised Hardware

The system works offline and uses a standard computer camera. This removes the need for specialised eye-tracking hardware and could make the technology more accessible.

Lyson Mapanga, Communications Officer at the Federation of Disability Organisations in Malawi (FEDOMA), demonstrated the system and explained how his disability affects the time needed to complete some computer tasks.

“If I am to type a four-page document using one hand, it will take me three to four hours for a four-page document to be finalised.”

After testing the technology, Mapanga said it could help him make better use of his abilities.

“I do believe that with this software, when I am using it, navigating this software, it will be very helpful. I will be able to maximise my potential in delivering what is recommended for me to do,” Mapanga explained.

Taking the Technology Beyond Development

Liwonde's project has already received the Best Social Impact Award at Malawi's National ICT Innovation Awards.

UNiPod Manager Francis Masi said efforts are underway to involve more stakeholders and move the technology beyond its development stage.

“The idea is that we should see this innovation being used out there,” he said.

Access to assistive technology remains limited in Malawi. Research cited by those involved in the project found that 56.5 percent of people with disabilities needed assistive technology, while only 6.1 percent had received it.