Ory Okolloh
Ory Okolloh is a Kenyan activist, lawyer, and technology innovator known for her transformative contributions to transparency, governance, and civic engagement in Africa. Ory grew up in a modest environment and pursued higher education at the University of Pittsburgh, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science. She later obtained her Juris Doctor (JD) from Harvard Law School, making her one of the few African women to graduate from the prestigious institution.
Okolloh first gained prominence as a blogger and co-founder of Mzalendo, a platform dedicated to monitoring the Kenyan Parliament. Mzalendo, which means “Patriot” in Swahili, provided a space for citizens to engage with and hold their government accountable. Her early work demonstrated her passion for transparency and using technology to foster civic engagement.
In 2007, during the post-election violence in Kenya, Okolloh co-founded Ushahidi, an innovative crowdsourcing platform that allowed people to report and map incidents of violence via SMS, email, and the web. Ushahidi, which means “testimony” in Swahili, was a game-changer, showcasing the power of technology to provide real-time information during crises. The platform’s open-source nature allowed it to be adapted for various uses globally, including in disaster response efforts like the 2010 Haiti earthquake and the Fukushima nuclear disaster.
Okolloh’s work with Ushahidi earned her international recognition, and she became a leading voice in technology and open data. She continued her career in the tech world as Google’s Policy Manager for Africa, where she worked on expanding internet access and developing policies that empower African digital communities. Later, she joined Omidyar Network as a Director of Investments, focusing on governance and citizen engagement across Africa.
Beyond her tech and policy work, Okolloh is also a fierce advocate for women’s rights and youth empowerment. She has been vocal about the need for African narratives to be controlled by Africans, criticizing the often patronizing portrayal of the continent in Western media. Her writings and speeches reflect her commitment to reshaping how the world views Africa and its potential.
Ory Okolloh’s impact extends beyond her professional achievements; she serves as a role model and inspiration, particularly for young African women aspiring to effect change in their communities. Her work embodies a blend of passion, intellect, and dedication to creating a more just and transparent society through the innovative use of technology.
Famous Quote
Africans are not waiting to be saved. We need to redefine how the world sees us and how we see ourselves.
— Ory Okolloh
