Inspiring African programmers
Video showing programming conference.
We are encouraging a new generation of programmers in southern Africa.
Software enthusiasts are embracing a multi-billion pound industry that helps power major web-based brands.
The programming language Python is used around the world by the likes of Google, YouTube, Dropbox and Instagram.
An annual Python event, supported by us and the University of Namibia, has been established in Namibia.
It offers Namibia the opportunity to enter an international community of free software writing that avoids the need to buy in expensive consultants. It allows Namibia to develop its own talent and participate on an equal footing with international partners.
The first PyCon Namibia took place in Windhoek in Namibia in 2015 and each year it has attracted software enthusiasts from around the world.
The event features talks, workshops and networking, and is aimed at professionals, scientists, academics, students and hobbyists.
Huge potential
PyCon Namibia is already inspiring others in southern Africa to explore Python’s huge potential.
A first Python convention took place in Zimbabwe in November 2016 after its organisers had attended Namibia’s annual gathering.
It is hoped that African programmers will one day be at the forefront of developing open source software such as Python, which is free to use, adapt and distribute.
Pinterest and Instagram are written in Python – a very powerful language. The next Pinterest or Instagram could come out of Namibia – why not?