Zimbabwean inventor unveils amazing new prototypes

SAITH Technologies founder and inventor Sangulani Max Chikumbutso stands by his two-seater helicopter which uses six different types of fuel. Photo: Aaron Ufumeli/NewsDay

A Zimbabwean designer, inventor and entrepreneur has unveiled a series of firsts in the country with his company's catalogue of new prototypes including a helicopter that uses different types of fuel, a locally-produced electric car, a 'green' generator and many others.

You can imagine that when Sangulani Chikumbutso dropped out of Form 2 (grade 9) his prospects seemed to veer away from all things bright. He had been brought up in a poor, high-density suburb by a single mother after his father had absconded. But apparently, he had not given up on himself.

The Saith Fully Electric Vehicle which was designed and made locally by Chikumbutso through Saith Technologies. Photo: Aaron Ufumeli/News Day

TechZim writes that, while in primary school, he had begun experimenting with electrical technology so much so that he was profiled an a television programme as a talented young man. Back then, he aspired to become a mechanic like his father, a journeyman.

Fast-forward a couple of decades to find Chikumbutso in an impeccably-tailored grey suit, introducing to a warehouse full of journalists and fascinated onlookers a series of fancy gadgets designed, developed and built by his company SAITH Technologies.

Sangulani Chikumbutso explains to visitors how the Permanent Magnetic Converter works during a presentation. Photo: Aaron Ufumeli

Yes, Sangulani Chikumbutso was on Monday launching some of his company’s products which included a hybrid engine-powered helicopter, an electric car, a magnetic converter, a ‘green’ power generator and a special drone.

With this launch, he has established himself as the first Zimbabwean to design and make an electric-powered vehicle and a hybrid helicopter. 

School children and guests take pictures of the drone during its test run. Photo: Aaron Ufumeli/News Day

Well done to Mr Chikumbutso and may he inspire a whole generation of young Zimbabwean innovators and entrepreneurs!