A Tribute to Dr. Boubakar Barry, Visionary Leader and Champion of African NRENs

UbuntuNet Alliance joins the global research and education networking community in mourning the passing of Dr. Boubakar Barry, CEO of WACREN, who passed away on September 18, 2024, at the age of 65. Dr. Barry was a visionary leader, mentor, and friend whose impact on African research and education networks (NRENs) will endure for generations.

Dr. Barry was instrumental in establishing NRENs across Africa and played a key role in the feasibility study of the EU-funded AfricaConnect project, which has been vital in connecting African researchers to the global stage. His commitment to digital transformation was clear during his tenure as Chairman of the Network Information Centre of Senegal (1997-2020) and as Director of the Computer Centre at Cheikh Anta Diop University, where he also founded the first Cisco Regional Academy in Francophone West and Central Africa in 2004.

From 2006 to 2013, Dr. Barry led the Research and Education Networking Unit at the Association of African Universities (AAU), where he helped establish NRENs across West and Central Africa. His leadership extended to UbuntuNet Alliance, where he served as a Board Member from 2011 to 2015, providing invaluable strategic insight and emphasizing the need for impact-driven work. Beyond his many professional accomplishments, Dr. Barry was known for his humility, generosity, and dedication to fostering collaboration. He was a leader who led by example, always prioritizing collective progress and inspiring those around him.

UbuntuNet Alliance extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Barry’s family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy lives on in the institutions he built and the countless lives he touched. WACREN has opened a Condolence Book at boubakarbarry.wacren.net for those wishing to pay tribute. Rest in peace, Dr. Boubakar Barry. Your vision and contributions will continue to guide and inspire us.

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