Category Archives: 3rd-world

Algorithms in Africa

Thanks to Karsten for this link: Algorithms in Africa is a thoughtful look at some of the ethical issues of computerization in 3rd world countries with emphasis on sustainability after 1st world installers have gone home. ‘…The center, located in a rural village of southern Uganda, provides food, medical care and education to about 600 children, most of whom have been orphaned by AIDS. The conditions are austere: one book for ten children, a tiny blackboard and a roof with holes. Bram found that his skills could help at Kibaale, his help made a difference. After a year spent working with the Centre, he wanted to find ways he could continue helping the project while also letting other people know of its existence. That’s when Bram hit on the idea of “charityware” for Vim. The license for Vim says simply: “Vim is Charityware. You can use and copy it as much as you like, but you are encouraged to make a donation to orphans in Uganda. Please read the file doc/uganda.txt for details.”…’