Ghanaian Tech Pioneer Herman Kojo Chinery-Hesse Passes Away
The tech world is mourning the loss of one of its most illustrious figures on the African continent, Herman Kojo Chinery-Hesse, who tragically passed away from cardiac arrest on Monday, September 16, 2024. At 61 years old, Chinery-Hesse was celebrated as a visionary and a pioneer in the technology sector, not just in his home country of Ghana but across West Africa and beyond.
Chinery-Hesse was best known as the founder and Chairman of SoFTribe, one of the leading software development companies in Ghana and West Africa. His innovative approach to technology solutions significantly impacted various sectors, including government, utilities, and security, through the creation of state-of-the-art systems and products.
Google recently honored his contributions to technology by naming one of its meeting rooms after him, a testament to his influence and legacy in the tech space. Moreover, his work had earned him acclaim far beyond the borders of Ghana; the BBC once referred to him as “The Bill Gates of Africa,” highlighting his exceptional contributions to software engineering in Africa.
Born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1963, Chinery-Hesse lived a life that was as international as it was impactful. However, he spent his recent years in Sierra Leone, contributing to the tech landscape there as well. His educational background includes attending Mfantsipim School in Cape Coast and furthering his studies in the United States at Westlake High School in Austin, Texas, followed by Texas State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Technology.
Through his company, SoFTribe, Chinery-Hesse was instrumental in developing groundbreaking technologies that have left an indelible mark on the tech industry. These include government payroll systems, nationwide utility billing systems, security alert systems, and comprehensive ERP systems, amongst others, showcasing his visionary approach to integrating technology into everyday life and governance.
Chinery-Hesse’s death leaves a void in the African tech ecosystem that will be challenging to fill. He is remembered not only for his technological innovations but also for his role as a mentor and inspiration to aspiring tech entrepreneurs across Africa. His legacy as a pioneering force in technology will undoubtedly continue to influence the sector for many years to come.
In the wake of this tragic news, a wave of tributes has emerged from friends, family, colleagues, and admirers across social media platforms, expressing shock and sadness at his untimely departure. As the tech community comes together to mourn one of its brightest stars, the enduring impact of Herman Kojo Chinery-Hesse’s work and his contribution to elevating Africa’s position on the global tech stage cannot be overstated.
As we say farewell to a truly remarkable individual, Herman Kojo Chinery-Hesse’s visionary legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of technology in Africa and beyond.
