Innovation can come from anywhere, and doesn't always have to be Bell Labs or a major university with a big grant budget. Take Morris Mbetsa, an 18-year-old self-taught inventor from Mombassa, Kenya. With no formal electronics training, he invented an anti-theft system for vehicles based on cellular technology.
The device, 'Block And Track', is a real-time system that uses a combination of voice, dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) and SMS to transit codes and messages that allow control of some of the vehicle's electrical systems, including the ignition. This set-up allows the car owner to remotely manage the ability to start and stop the engine. The system can even be triggered by the ignition being turned to SMS the owner, asking permission to start. The device also allows the owner to eavesdrop on conversations in the vehicle.
Mbetsa is currently looking for funding to commercially develop the device, according to AfriGadget.