Moses Znati

A Tunisian computer scientist who laid the foundation for Africa’s internet infrastructure in the 1990s.

Moses Znati (1958–2020) was a Tunisian computer scientist and engineer who played a pivotal role in connecting Africa to the global internet. Born in Tunis, he earned a PhD in Computer Science from Stanford University and returned to Tunisia in 1990 to co-found the African Network Information Center (AFRINIC), the continent’s first internet registry. His work enabled African countries to obtain unique IP addresses and domain names, essential for internet access.

Znati spearheaded the Trans非洲光缆项目 in 1998, a $1 billion initiative to install undersea fiber-optic cables linking Africa to Europe and Asia. This project, completed in 2009, reduced internet costs by 80% across 20 African nations. He also pioneered the AfricaConnect2 program, which expanded high-speed internet to universities and research institutions.

His 2003 book Connecting Africa Online outlined strategies for digital inclusion, influencing policies in over 30 African governments. Znati’s legacy includes the Moses Znati Foundation, which trains young Africans in tech entrepreneurship. In 2015, he was awarded the UNESCO Internet Prize for his contributions to global connectivity.