Traffic has been a menace in several cities in Africa especially in Nairobi , Kenya. There has been an information gap in having prior information as to which roads are facing what traffic situation and as to how to avoid or join them. Derevabuddy seeks to bridge this information gap. Derevabuddy is a map based utility app, that uses Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) devices to source its data. It uses GPS enabled devices i.e smartphones to crowd source map coordinates, device speed and direction. This are then sent to a web server whereby they are processed and saved on a database. The results are then reflected on the app in real time. The roads on the map are then colored using specific colors i.e Red = Heavy Traffic , Purple = Moderate Traffic, Green = Light Traffic. Users can also report incidents on the roads from within the app by taking a picture and attaching it directly on the map to warn other motorists. Also tweets talking about traffic can be accessed from the app. All this is to ensure the one using the app has full traffic information on the road they are currently on, how to maneuver traffic and where not to join. Its ideal for drivers as the name suggest since it can be used without the need to use the phone while on the wheel. You just need to load the map and have the phone in a location you can glance. As the drivers will be accessing this information,they will also be submitting their traffic situation anonymously to other road users. The app is based on Google maps, therefore, can be used anywhere. It only requires data connection to submit and download this information. The app is still in beta testing to know which android devices it currently supports before it goes live on the store. Its free for download and use. This app can also greatly reduce accidents on our roads since it shows the user the current GPS device speed incase they cannot access the dashboard. In cases of Matatu users, if the speeds are above the required limit, they can use it to advise the driver to reduce speeds. In conclusion, Derevabuddy is a project that will help save time, fuel and inconviniences that motorists face everyday on our roads.
