By Kennedy Nalyanya
NAIROBI – In a significant leap forward for inclusivity in Africa, a young Kenyan entrepreneur has launched a ground-breaking platform that translates English into Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) using artificial intelligence. Elly Savatia, 24, founder of the startup Signvrse, is the mastermind behind Terp 360, a web-based tool designed to bridge the communication gap for the deaf community.
Terp 360 utilizes digital avatars that mimic the gestures, facial expressions, and movements of a real sign language interpreter. This innovative approach ensures that the translations are not only accurate but also convey the nuance and emotion of KSL, which is crucial for effective communication. The platform is already making a tangible difference in sectors like education, healthcare, and employment, where deaf individuals often face significant barriers.
"We saw a dire need for a tool that could empower the deaf community and foster true inclusion," said Savatia in a recent interview. "Terp 360 is more than just a translation tool; it's a bridge to opportunities and a voice for those who have long been marginalized."
The platform has quickly gained traction, with over 2,000 users already registered on the web app. Signvrse plans to release a mobile version of Terp 360 in December 2025, which will include a subscription model to support further development and expansion.
While the current version has some limitations in translating complex or highly contextual phrases, Signvrse is actively working to improve its accuracy. The company is currently building Kenya's largest sign language dataset, a monumental effort that will feed into the AI to enhance its understanding and translation capabilities. This initiative is expected to not only refine Terp 360 but also serve as a foundational resource for future sign language AI applications across the continent.
Terp 360 has already received accolades for its innovation and social impact, positioning Signvrse as a key player in Africa's burgeoning tech scene. The start-up's mission to leverage technology for social good highlights a new wave of African entrepreneurs who are not only building profitable businesses but also addressing critical societal challenges.
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