iZola launches app targeting neurodivergent children, families

Digital health AI startup iZola has unveiled the Xaidi app, a new digital health helper that seeks to empower neurodivergent, special needs children and their families.

This is by enabling them to navigate their day-to-day life challenges and opportunities by providing access to healthcare experts such as therapists and information as well as tips to simplify their healthcare journey.

Xaida encompasses features that facilitate communication, track health progress and provide valuable insights into special needs such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). 

The innovative solution which was built by a team of young Kenyans in collaboration with a team from Germany, leverages data acquired from research from globally renowned institutions like Mayo Clinic and Harvard University. 

It also leverages data through interactions with therapists and parent groups.

It also uses GPT technology to provide much-needed assistance to special needs children and their caregivers, offering information in both Swahili and English.

The app is also designed to help parents with neurodivergent children feel more supported and confident in handling learning and thinking differences.

The development of the solution was funded by German data, analytics, and AI-based company Vitafluence, to the tune of Sh100 million.

Speaking during the official launch, Directorate of Children Services deputy director Philip Nzenge said children and young people with developmental disabilities are a large and growing population across the globe.

According to the UNICEF 2023 report on children with developmental disabilities, it is estimated that in 2019, there were 316.8 million cases of developmental conditions in children and adolescents globally.

The number of prevalent cases was higher for males (179.7 million) than for females (137 million).

Nzenge noted that in Kenya, 11.7 per cent of the population are people living with disability where 52 per cent are boys and 48 per cent are girls.

“Children comprise of almost half of the population or slightly higher and the 11.7 per cent is too big to be left without very well, impartial policies and room to ensure their protection,” he said.

Nzenge added that the increased global internet use and access further complicates the discussion as it is impossible to live without the language of special needs children who have come on board.

“We must lament on how we engage children with disability on issues of internet usage in the country and the world,” he said.

“We are lucky to have more than 89 per cent of internet penetration in the country and it is growing strongly without forgetting network and electricity connectivity,”

“We cannot leave children with disability behind, they must be included.”

Nzenge noted that with AI, it is easy to sensor, translate and interpret things for neurodivergent children.

“For example, with children with autism, when they engage in a specific activity, they tend to follow through with it and this is why with the addictive power of technology, we are more than able to build on inclusion,” he said.

On her part, iZola co-founder Wamuyu Owotoki said Xaidi is a way to leverage the power of technology to be able to multiply the power and number of healthcare professionals who cannot be everywhere at the same time.

She added that it is also a way for those in far areas to gain access to top professional therapists.

“In order to see the population of children with developmental disabilities continue growing, access to technology, diagnosis and therapy are some of the ways we can increase awareness,” Owotoki said.

“In a world that is increasingly connected, it is our responsibility to ensure that technology serves everyone including those with unique healthcare conditions.”

She further said the app is a symbol of empowerment fostering a healthcare ecosystem that is tailored to the diverse needs of individuals with special requirements.

“This is a space we want to contribute and create awareness on using technology,” Owotoki added.

To date, she also said they have helped 1500 families receive therapy for their children through iZola and 150 families receive scholarships directly from Vitanfluence.

Through the scholarships, families have been able to get access to vetted therapists to provide help to the children through occupational, speech, physio, music and psychotherapy.

“Through the seamless integration of AI, our app aims to provide personalised efficiency reports breaking down barriers to accessibility and care as envisaged on the SDG goal number 3 on promoting good health and wellbeing,” she said.

“Our mission is to ease the burden families go through and inspire a global movement where tech becomes a bridge to a more inclusive, and compassionate world.”

Speaking on her experience dealing with neurodivergent children, NCPWD board member Sylvia Mochabo said such a cause is very close to her heart considering the stigma they face as parents and caregivers.

She said such support makes life easier for them.

“I am a mum of three, with two children who have autism, epilepsy and learning challenges and sometimes we lack the energy to talk about such things,” Mochabo said.

“With early intervention, some of the things I went through include acceptance, then wondering where to start and with words like therapy the first thing one would think of is alcoholic Anonymous or even psychologists because you would think you are losing it.”

“I am happy that we are embracing the change and as parents, we have groups where we can talk and support each other. I would like to encourage parents to speak up for their children so that we have more inclusion and utilise such platforms.”

Xaidi app is currently available on Google Play Store.