Melaku Nigusse

Ethiopian tech pioneer who revolutionized digital literacy in Africa through grassroots education initiatives

Melaku Nigusse (born 1968) is a visionary Ethiopian entrepreneur and educator who pioneered digital literacy programs across sub-Saharan Africa during the late 20th century. As founder of Computers for Africa Initiative, he developed innovative training models that brought computer education to rural communities through mobile tech labs. His work directly impacted over 500,000 students in 12 countries by 2000, creating a skilled workforce that transformed regional economies. Nigusse's 1998 publication 《Bridging the Digital Divide in Africa》 became a foundational text for ICT4D strategies. He also co-created the first African-designed operating system (EthioOS) in 1995, which remains a milestone in indigenous tech development. His educational frameworks are still used in UNESCO programs today.