(DUBAI) – Four South Sudanese teenagers have designed and built a robot that collects plastic waste from water bodies, marking a rare innovation achievement from the country’s youth. The robot, named Ramceil Botics, was unveiled at the First Global Challenge in Dubai, where it gained international attention.
The invention was created with the aim of tackling one of the world’s growing environmental problems: plastic waste in oceans, rivers, and lakes. The robot uses mechanical arms and a conveyor system that allow it to scoop up both large pieces of plastic debris and smaller particles floating in the water.
The team of young innovators say their project was driven by the growing concern about pollution in African waters, including those in South Sudan. Although the country is landlocked, rivers such as the Nile are increasingly threatened by waste dumping, making innovations like Ramciel Botics important for both the environment and communities who rely on the river for fishing, farming, and transport.
For many in the country, where access to modern science and technology facilities remains limited, this project has been seen as a symbol of possibility and resilience.
Plastic waste remains a global problem. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, over 11 million tonnes of plastic enter the world’s oceans each year.
The cost of building Ramciel Botics has not yet been made public, but such projects usually require significant financial support. If replicated in South Sudan, similar technologies would need investment in local training, facilities and access to materials.
