Mekelle/Tel Aviv/Nairobi/Pretoria/London
Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS): Empowering Peace and Progress Through Innovation
*Promoting Peace Through Artificial Intelligence
Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS) proudly announces a major milestone in its mission to promote peace through cutting-edge technology. The organization has successfully developed and validated an AI model capable of detecting hate speech, misinformation, and disinformation in Tigrigna, marking a groundbreaking achievement in digital peacebuilding in the Tigray region.
During the official launch event, STS expressed heartfelt gratitude to its distinguished guests and partners Global Affairs Canada, Search for Common Ground, and ELIDA for their invaluable support and feedback. The organization also extended appreciation to religious leaders, civil society representatives, media professionals, digital creators, IDP representatives, private organizations, and marginalized community representatives from Kunama and Irob, whose collaboration and encouragement made this success possible.
This achievement represents not only a technological advancement but also a meaningful contribution to digital peacebuilding and responsible AI use in conflict-affected communities. STS remains committed to leveraging innovation to foster social harmony, inclusivity, and sustainable development.
“Let’s continue leveraging technology to promote peace!”
Background of Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS)
Established: 2023 (2015 E.C.)
Legal Registration: Civil Societies Organization Proclamation of Tigray, Proclamation No. 327/2011
Registration Number: 11/2015
Type: Non-governmental, non-religious, and non-profit civil society organization
Founded in response to the devastating humanitarian and social impact of the recent war in Tigray, Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS) emerged with a mission to harness the power of technology for community recovery, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.
Mission
STS is dedicated to leveraging technology as a tool for peace, empowerment, and inclusive development. The organization strives to bridge the digital divide by providing innovative, affordable, and context-driven technological solutions that address social challenges and promote lasting peace.
Core Values
- Peacebuilding: Promoting harmony and conflict resolution through responsible technology use.
- Inclusivity: Ensuring marginalized communities including youth, women, and minority groups are empowered and represented.
- Innovation: Encouraging creativity and local problem-solving through modern technology.
- Accountability: Operating with transparency and responsibility in all partnerships and programs.
- Collaboration: Building strong alliances with local and international partners for sustainable impact.
- Equity: Prioritizing fair access to opportunities and digital resources for all. Key Achievements and Impact
Since its establishment, STS has achieved remarkable progress across multiple sectors innovation, education, youth empowerment, and peacebuilding. Some of its notable initiatives and accomplishments include:
1. AI-Powered Peacebuilding
- Development of a Tigrigna-language AI model that detects hate speech, misinformation, and disinformation a pioneering step in digital peace initiatives. 2. Youth Empowerment and Digital Literacy
- Trained over 1,000 youth in peacebuilding, social media literacy, and responsible digital engagement in collaboration with ACSOT.
- Provided professional web design and development training to 15 students, several of whom have secured employment. 3. Gender-Focused Tech Initiatives
- Implemented the “Tech-Driven Expression: Harnessing AI to Empower Girls Through Graphic Stories” program, funded by USAID, which trained 50 young women in ethical AI use and trauma-informed digital storytelling.
4. Technological Solutions for Governance and Accountability
- Developed the Tigray Aid Management System (TAMS) to streamline aid distribution and reduce fraud.
- Created the Tigray Youth Voice System, enabling youth participation through complaint mechanisms.
- Built the Tigray Human Rights Advocacy System, a platform for documenting cases of human rights violations against women during the war. 5. Collaborative Peacebuilding and Dialogue
- Conducted peacebuilding and national dialogue training in Mekelle, Axum, Adigrat, and Addis Ababa, in collaboration with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) and Ybuntu Youth Peace Building Alliance.
Looking Ahead
STS envisions a future where technology serves as a cornerstone for peace, equity, and prosperity in Tigray and beyond. The organization aims to expand its tech-driven initiatives across education, health, agriculture, and industry through its Technology Access Program (TAP).
By continuously fostering partnerships and innovation, STS remains steadfast in its commitment to empower communities, promote peace, and drive sustainable development through technology.
