In response to the alarming rise in the number of children reported missing across South Africa, Durban-based inventor Simphiwe Ntuli has developed an innovative smart watch designed to help parents keep a vigilant eye on their children’s whereabouts.
Ntuli, a jewellery designer from uMlazi, told IOL that he recognised a critical gap in child safety technology, especially considering that many schools restrict children from carrying mobile phones or gadgets.
“We often hear about children going missing, yet children aren’t usually allowed to carry phones to school. I saw an opportunity to create a product that could both be a viable business and a practical safety tool,” he explained.
The smart watch, known as the KV Track watch, is packed with features aimed at protecting children. It allows parents to track their child’s movements in real time and provides alerts if the child leaves a designated safe zone through its Geo-Fence feature. Each watch is linked to an app called SE Track on the parent’s cellphone, which offers detailed movement reports and even allows for phone calls. This combination of tracking and communication provides parents with reassurance and immediate contact when needed.
Ntuli initially launched the watch business in 2017 but faced challenges due to high production costs and low consumer willingness to pay at that time. After pausing the venture to re-evaluate the market and streamline production, he successfully relaunched the business in late 2021 with a more affordable product and a reliable production team.
Though Ntuli is not a technology expert himself, he collaborates closely with manufacturers to ensure the watches meet his exact specifications. What makes his product stand out is its unique design tailored specifically for children’s safety and its accessibility at an affordable price point.
“My target market includes all parents, regardless of income or background,” said Ntuli.
“Parents today juggle many commitments, and it’s easy to lose track of your child’s location, especially when they’re at school or elsewhere. This watch is for anyone who wants to monitor and protect their child more effectively.”
Looking ahead, Ntuli is motivated to further address safety concerns by developing a device that will help victims of women and child abuse call for immediate assistance at the push of a button — a testament to his ongoing commitment to community safety.
Editor’s Note: Every parent’s worst fear is losing track of their child — and in South Africa, where reports of missing children continue to rise, that fear is all too real. Driven by this crisis, uMlazi inventor Simphiwe Ntuli created the KV Track smart watch: a powerful, affordable tool that lets parents track their child’s location, set safe zones, and stay in touch — all without the need for a smartphone. This is more than just a gadget; it’s a lifeline born from compassion, designed to keep children safe and give parents peace of mind.
Description: This uMlazi based inventor Simphiwe Ntuli developed the KV Track smart watch — a locally designed, affordable safety device that helps parents monitor their children in real time. Blending compassion with innovation, his story offers hope and practical impact for families nationwide.
Editor: Thato Mahlangu
Project Manager: Do4SA
