AI innovation seeks to bridge Tanzania’s digital divide for people with disabilities

Tanga. For individuals who rely on sign language, a classroom, workplace, public meeting, or family gathering can quickly become a place of isolation when those around them cannot communicate effectively.

To address this everyday barrier, a group of young innovators from Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (Muhas) has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) solution, Bridging Silence that translates sign language into Kiswahili text and speech in real time.

Showcased during the National Education, Skills, and Innovation Week in Tanga, the technology eases communication for people with hearing and speech disabilities, particularly students facing learning environments unequipped for their needs.

At the core of the system is SautiBox, a device equipped with a camera, speaker, and microprocessor.

It captures user gestures, processes them, and outputs spoken Kiswahili for hearing individuals.

The team is also developing a supporting mobile application and web portal.