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Luganda web browser set

09/15/2004 Uganda (The New Vision ) -- Luganda web browser set

By Davis Weddi

It is all smiles at James Lunghabo’s office on Kagga House in Kampala where a Luganda language Internet browser has been made ready for use.

Lunghabo, the managing director of Linux Solutions, yesterday announced that the ‘Kayungirizi web browser’ is ready for distribution.

He said the software would be made available for download from the Internet.

According to Lunghabo, the software will be launched today during the Uganda I-Network monthly seminar in Kampala.

“It will be easier for Luganda speakers to surf the Internet. They will not have to ask for explanations since everything is explained in Luganda,” Lunghabo said.

Earlier this year, The New Vision reported that local players in information and communication technology were developing a virtual instrument to bridge the digital divide.

The ‘Kayungirizi web browser’ can be used in computers which have windows, Linux of Unix operating systems.

“With the sprouting Internet cafés within the country where Luganda is common language, ‘Kayungirizi’ will be a vital tool. Since it is free, it will be easier for many to communicate on the Internet,” he said.

The brains behind this project have also initiated a Luganda word processor which will be used with the Luganda Internet browser.

In March, Lunghabo and Ivan Mugabi said there were arrangements to extend ‘Kayungirizi’ into other local languages like Lunyankole, Lunyoro, Luo and Ateso. Research is underway.

He said more than 50% of Ugandans will be potential users of their products.
Experts said the number of people getting access to the Internet in Uganda is increasing and the enthusiasm of the public had created demand for local content.

Published on: Wednesday, 15th September, 2004
Source: New Vision
http://www.newvision.co.ug/D/8/220/386198

Date: 09/15/2004
Location: Uganda
Theme: Content and Language, Software
Source: The New Vision
Contact: Davis Weddi