In a world where access to technology often defines opportunity, the Living Open Source Foundation is making sure no one gets left behind—especially in Zambia and across Africa. Their mission is simple but powerful: make technology open, accessible, and empowering for everyone.

At its core, this isn’t just about software—it’s about people. It’s about young Zambians discovering they can build apps, run servers, contribute to global projects, or even land remote jobs with international companies… all because they learned something that was open and free.

What’s Open Source Anyway?

Open source means the technology is free to use, free to improve, and free to share. Think of it like a community cookbook—anyone can add a recipe, try one out, or tweak it to their taste.

And in Africa, where expensive software licenses and internet limitations can be major roadblocks, open source is a game-changer. It puts the power back into the hands of students, developers, entrepreneurs, and even governments.

How LOSF is Making a Difference

The Living Open Source Foundation isn’t a big flashy tech company. It’s a group of passionate, dedicated people who believe that every Zambian deserves a shot at the digital world.

So far, we have:

Trained over 700 people in open-source technologies like Linux, DevOps, and cloud.

Helped more than 50 individuals get globally recognized IT certifications which is a big deal when you’re trying to break into tech.

Hosted free workshops and bootcamps so that even those who can’t afford formal education can still gain valuable skills.

Worked with local businesses and schools to build tech systems powered by open-source tools, making operations more affordable and scalable.

Why This Matters for Africa

Africa is young. It’s creative. It’s full of people who are hungry to learn and build. What’s been missing is access. Open source fills that gap.

Here’s what makes it powerful:

It’s free, so students and startups don’t have to worry about huge software costs.

It’s flexible – meaning it can be adapted to solve local problems in ways global solutions can’t.

It builds community – because open source thrives when people share ideas, teach each other, and collaborate across borders.

It’s Bigger Than Tech It’s About Opportunity

When someone from a small town in Zambia learns how to deploy a cloud server using open-source tools, they’re not just learning tech they’re gaining the power to earn, create, and teach others. They become part of a global movement that says, “We rise by lifting others.”

That’s the heart of the Living Open Source Foundation. It’s not about selling software. It’s about opening doors.

The Road Ahead

The foundation is just getting started. We dream of seeing every corner of Zambia and eventually Africa filled with tech-savvy youth, self-taught developers, local startups, and open-source-powered organizations.

We are calling on more partners, educators, and dreamers to join the mission. Because when we build with open tools, we build a future that’s open for all.

Santos Venter Chibenga