The name Lucynix is derived from "Lucy" - the name of 3.2 million year old female skeleton discovered in Hadar, northern part of Ethiopia and "nix" - often used as a suffix for Unix-like systems. Lucynix is an initiative of the Ethiopian Free & Open Source Software network (EFOSSNet) committed to empower women through Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Lucynix was founded at the FOSS Policy Workshop held on July 21, 2006 at UNECA. Lucynix is a network that supports women in computing, especially in Free and Open Source Software (FOSS), to use & discuss FOSS & Linux, to actively involve in FOSS development, to share resources, technical skill & experience on FOSS. Members of Lucynix range from novice to experienced FOSS users, software developers, system administrators, any individuals and organizations that provide ICT support services, support the advocacy & development of FOSS.

Vision

To create women leaders in FOSS technology utilization, development & support in the country.

Mission

Empower women to use, develop & support FOSS solutions and thereby contribute to the socio-economic development of the country.

To accomplish our mission Lucynix is committed to work on the following main focus areas:

• Advocacy of FOSS:
Create awareness of FOSS solutions in academic, government and private organization.
• Creation of Enabling Environment:
Create a more hospitable environment where women can support each other, share knowledge & technical skills.
• Digital & Technical Inclusion:
Enable women to successfully challenge the digital & technical exclusion through on line discussions using mailing list, organizing seminars & trainings on FOSS.
• Research & Development:
Support women to conduct research and development in any of the areas of FOSS development.