A Cape based tech firm has designed Africa's first low power solar-powered Android desktop computer.
Capsule Technologies earned international recognition for the Western Cape’s Information and communications technology (ICT) sector with its ground-breaking technology.
Alan Winde, MEC of Economic Opportunities, visited the company on Friday afternoon (25 July 2014) to congratulate the entrepreneurs, Megan Verkuil, the founder of the company and Franck Martinaux, the firm’s chief technology officer.
Verkuil hails from Mitchells Plain and launched the company only a few months ago.
The device, the IMPI Mk1, has also been recognised as a World Design Project.
Verkuil said the device is energy efficient and can operate on 20 watts of electricity. It is durable and able to withstand the dusty African terrain.
She said the company was in talks to take their product to other African countries. They planned to expand their operations this year and were committed to only hiring local employees.
MEC Winde commended the team for their contribution to the local ICT sector.
“I’m here today to celebrate one the Western Cape’s heroes. Capsule Technologies is an excellent advertisement for tech innovation in the province. This is an example of the talented entrepreneurs in the Western Cape.
“Their invention is playing a role positioning the Western Cape as the continent’s innovation hub. It’s also demonstrates unique solutions for African challenges,” said MEC Winde.
ICT is one of the Western Cape’s priority sectors, employing 30 000 people in this province and contributing R3 billion to the Gross domestic product (GDP).
Enquiries:
Bronwynne Jooste
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 082 454 4365
