Open Source Software (OSS) and Linux are a big chance for Ethiopia to connect to the global information technologies and to build up local IT knowledge that makes them more independent from external help.
- Linux and Open Source Software are free. Most commercial software in Ethiopia is pirated because only few can afford paying the high prices for a licence. Linux and OSS not only avoid illegality but also prepare for the time when it will be made impossible to use pirated software.
- Linux and OSS build up local knowledge. Money is spent for local programmers and developers, not for software licences outside of Ethiopia. Consequently, if there is a demand for open source programmers and services, programmers can stay in Ethiopia to find adequate jobs.
- Linux is easy to localise. An Amharic (the official language in Ethiopia) version will come soon, thanks to The Ge'ez Frontier Foundation. Thus, Ethiopians who cannot speak English, will have a chance to nevertheless use computers.
- Open Source Software saves financial means because it can extend the lifespan of computer hardware without compromising on functionality. Even complex applications do not rely on expensive modern hardware, but are able to run on 5 - 10 year old computers.
If you want to know more about our experiences with Linux and Open Source Software in Ethiopia, read our "travel report".
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