An anti-sexual harassment platform
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How could this AI-powered app help to make public spaces safer?
Spotted: Sexual harassment is a harsh but common reality for millions of people around the world. In Egypt, for example, 99.3 per cent of women reported experiencing some kind of sexual harassment at least once in their lives in a study by UN Women. Now, Hiryo wants to use technology to empower and help protect communities.
The AI-powered platform was founded by German University in Cairo (GUC) Computer Science graduates Salma Medhat Shaaban and Ahmed Rihan back in 2020 in a bid to help prevent harassment, as well as support individuals during and after these traumatic events.
Formerly called Matkhafeesh (or “Don’t be afraid” in Arabic), one of the app’s key features is the HiryoMap. With this, users can anonymously report the exact location of any harassment (whether verbal or physical), helping to show other app users areas they should avoid, where harassment is particularly rife. This data can also be used by governments and NGOs to better understand where urgent action is needed to protect citizens.
The app hasn’t yet been fully launched, but other features include the HiryoSafe ‘Circle of Trust’, where users select four individuals to be in their ‘Circle’. In an emergency, this voice-activated feature allows users to automatically request immediate help from these individuals.
Understanding that sexual harassment and attacks have a long-lasting impact on victims, Hiryo also aims to connect individuals with vital mental health support, workshops, and group sessions. In the event that users want to take further action following an attack, Hiryo can also connect them with legal services, including lawyers who will offer initial consultations for free.
Last year, Hiryo won Startup of the Year at the Global Startup Awards Africa.
Written By: Matilda Cox