Salema App: Enhancing Community Protection through Wearable Technology
Revolutionising safety! Discover how the Salema App & wearable tech are transforming communities with real-time alerts & life-saving security.
The Start Small & Grow Big workshop held in Mahikeng by TEA was designed to empower aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills and insights to kickstart their businesses. Among the notable participants was Morekolodi Mankuroane, a winner of the TEA Kasi Pitching Challenge and the founder of a groundbreaking software and security services company. His journey exemplifies the intersection of technology and community safety, showcasing how innovation can address pressing social issues in South Africa.
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From Humble Beginnings to Tech Visionary
Morekolodi’s journey began in a rural village with minimal technology and infrastructure, no traffic lights, few resources, and limited access to the digital world. Growing up, he was a competitive and curious thinker, brimming with ideas on how to improve his community. His high school years exposed him to new environments, particularly through South Africa’s Innovation Hub, sparking a passion for technology that has driven him ever since.
Despite a modest upbringing, Morekolodi dreamed big, aiming to create something that would benefit his community directly. His first steps into tech took place in high school, where he joined programmes encouraging young South Africans to innovate. By the age of 17, he was already exploring solutions to societal challenges, particularly those related to safety and gender-based violence (GBV). This early exposure to both tech and social issues laid the foundation for his future company and community-centred mission.
Building a Business in Tech and Security
In August 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown, Morekolodi launched his business, a unique blend of software development and security guard services. Motivated by the rise in GBV cases and a strong sense of social responsibility, he saw an opportunity to leverage technology to meet essential security needs.
His flagship product, the Salema App, is a comprehensive safety platform featuring real-time notifications of high-risk zones, an emergency alert system, and voice-activated commands to call for help. Users are alerted to danger and connected to local security personnel and safe houses, creating a responsive care network. Beyond the app, Morekolodi introduced the Salema Belt and Salema Bracelet, wearable devices designed to help track missing persons, particularly valuable in cases of GBV, hijackings, and kidnappings.
A Vision for Community Impact
Morekolodi’s business goes beyond providing a service; it impacts communities by creating jobs and fostering safer environments. With over 612 cases managed by the Salema App to date, the company is establishing itself as a trusted name in community security. Morekolodi’s model emphasises local partnerships and employs trained security personnel, which has a positive economic impact on the areas his business serves.
His approach to combining tech with in-person services fills a unique gap in the security market and demonstrates his belief in a balanced approach to safety. His business model supports not only safety but also local employment and economic upliftment, strengthening the fabric of communities.
Triumphs and Challenges on the Entrepreneurial Path
Like most entrepreneurs, Morekolodi has faced challenges. The technical learning curve, financial demands, and the complexities of scaling have all tested his resilience. However, the rewards—such as meeting people from across Africa, generating income for others, and even having the honour of meeting the President, have validated his journey.
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Winning the TEA Kasi Pitching Challenge was a major milestone, securing him a R50,000 prize that helped fund new equipment and launch additional services. The Salema App has achieved over 500 downloads, a significant milestone that reflects his commitment to sustainable growth and impact.
“Tech can be intimidating,” Morekolodi acknowledges, “but you have to give yourself the freedom to start as a beginner.” He encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace challenges, stay informed, and ensure compliance in all ventures. His journey proves that determination and a commitment to serve can create a lasting impact.