A Nigerian-born engineer, Mike Oluwaseun Ojumu, has developed drone technology aimed at reducing malaria transmission in vulnerable communities.
Ojumu, who grew up in Katsina State where malaria was a constant household challenge, is pioneering the use of autonomous drones equipped with AI-driven spraying systems to target mosquito-breeding areas. His project, which began in Nigeria, is designed to provide a cost-effective alternative for families who cannot afford conventional insecticides. Family vacation packages
“With malaria, treatment became almost routine in my community. I wanted to imagine solutions beyond medicine,” he said.
Ojumu, a mechanical engineer with expertise in subsea robotics and autonomous systems, started his journey with limited funding, building his first flight controllers from salvaged components. Today, his drones integrate computer vision and sensor technologies to detect mosquito habitats and deliver precision spraying.
Globally, drones are increasingly used in agriculture, security, and disaster response. But Ojumu argues that their greatest impact in Africa could come from public health and agriculture. “The biggest investment opportunities in drones are no longer about novelty but necessity,” he said.
He is also calling on Nigerian universities to integrate drone technology into STEM programmes, using affordable kits and competitions to equip students with real-world skills.
According to Ojumu, local manufacturing and partnerships will be critical for Africa to reduce reliance on imports and make drone solutions sustainable.
“As a child, I often questioned why a disease as common as malaria held such power over our lives.
“That curiosity planted the seeds of resilience in me. While many accepted malaria as an unavoidable reality, I began to imagine alternative solutions, he recalled.
“From fragments of scrap to life-saving interventions, this journey proves that technology guided by purpose can change lives,” he added.
Source @TheGaurdian
