@Phares, IMHO, the foundation idea seems very good, however If the foundation is going to be based on an  type NGO of structure, i.e use of Open Source or it receives any funding through such, then we are definately outside the objectives of forming something very home grown. TA problem is that the foundation or association would lack a mandate to deal with all sorts of issues, be compromised on its objectives ( like making sure it sings the open source  lyrics ). Please keep in mnd that Open Source programs and software, as much as proprietory software,  is also a competitor to the local software and developer industry. For every free software that can be downloaded and installed to perform a function, it is killing the local industry. This explains why we don't get threads on this list asking developers to create software, and even if there are times, mostly are referred to freeware of some sort.

 

@Paul, formalities that you dislike. Just to point out to you that the without a sound structure and a portfolio in place, it would be impossible to even ask a lawyer to present a case. None of us like formalities ( time wastage in many cases.....too much chai na mandazi....too much talk shows....etc etc ), however we should treat them as part and parcel of the process. Once we have established a solid foundation, everyone can build upwards from it.  We have to create the stadium so that soccer teams can play on.

 

Help us create the portfolio documents, visions and objectives through your views, be part and parcel of the process. If @Phares and others are working towards a foundation, then let us support fully with our inputs to create a tomorrow that everyone else worked towards.

 

Rgds. :-)