Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s first Computer Refurbishment and Training Centre (CRTC) was established in February 2010 by the Digital Partnership in conjunction with the MoCIT (Ministry of Communication and Information Technology), to provide a sustainable, integrated approach to meeting the technology, training and capacity building needs of the country.

Through the provision of high quality, affordable technology, the CRTC supports the move towards the Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) assisted development of health, community, education and rural extension services throughout Ethiopia. Over 11,000 computers have been donated to date.

As the first Microsoft Refurbisher in Ethiopia, pre-used donated computers are professionally tested, cleaned and loaded with licensed software in a high-tech environment. The computers are then deployed on a cost recovery basis, with the CRTC offering support and ensuring eligible recipients are able to provide a secure environment for the safe and sustainable use of ICT.

As the primary focus is knowledge sharing, skill development and capacity building, the CRTC is also a learning organisation providing hands-on practical ICT and business skills training to help shape the ICT support staff of the future.

Efforts to bridge the digital divide can be both environmentally and socially sound, only if supported by a legitimate end-of-life solution. The project has therefore also established a de-manufacturing facility, where ICT equipment is handled in an environmentally sound manner in accordance with the international guidelines for the disposal of electronic waste.