In 2016 a teenager from Namibia invented a 'Sim-less' and 'Airtime free' Phone.

Simon Petrus created a phone that works with radio frequencies, with no sim card or airtime required. Calls can be made to anyone, anywhere, without interruptions.

The mobile device took the whiz kid two years to complete, and it has not been plain sailing for the young inventor, who faced financial difficulties. The project was funded by Petrus’ unemployed parents, who had to sacrifice over N$2 000 (U.S$ 146) to ensure that his project would be completed successfully.

The invention, which is made up of a radio system, is attached to a box and makes voice calls, while also doubling up as a TV, allowing the user to watch one TV channel. Petrus’ invention is not a fly-by-night success story.

In 2015 the learner won a gold medal at the NamPower national schools’ competition after he reportedly invented the machine that serves as a seed drier and cooler.