Celebrating Codenight's Impact

On February 22, 2025, I had the privilege of speaking at Developer Meetup V3, sharing the story of Codenight from an administrator’s perspective. Standing before an audience of over 300 tech enthusiasts, I reflected on how far this community has come—from a handful of developers meeting informally to a thriving network of over 9,000 active members.

The Codenight Journey

Codenight began as a small gathering, a space where software developers, coders, and hobbyists could exchange ideas in an informal setting. What started as casual meetups soon evolved into something greater. Over the past five years, this grassroots initiative has become a pillar of Ethiopia’s tech scene, fostering collaboration, learning, and mentorship on an unprecedented scale.

A Force in Ethiopia’s Tech Landscape

The impact of Codenight extends beyond its immediate members. It has become a launchpad for innovation, where developers can showcase projects, refine their skills, and build professional networks. More than just a community, Codenight has contributed to the broader ecosystem—nurturing new talent, supporting startups, and helping shape the future of Ethiopia’s digital economy.

Building a Culture of Engagement

One of the most powerful aspects of Codenight is its ability to keep members connected. A weekly newsletter ensures that developers stay informed about emerging projects, upcoming events, and success stories within the community. This steady stream of engagement has cultivated not just a network, but a sense of belonging—turning Codenight into a movement rather than just a meetup.

Developer Meetup V3: A Celebration of Community

The Developer Meetup V3 was a testament to this shared commitment. Panel discussions, expertly facilitated by Simon Asnake, brought together some of Ethiopia’s most influential tech leaders, including Abenezer Seifu, Yebeltal F., Beek Kefyalew, Seid Yassin, Yafet Getachew Teffera, Rehana Abdulber, Birhan Nega, Cherinet Hailu, and Tesfamichael Molla. Their insights underscored the importance of collaboration in driving Ethiopia’s tech industry forward.

None of this would have been possible without the support of our generous sponsors: ALX Ethiopia, Yegara Host, Iceaddis, Convex Technologies, Chapa, Kuraztech, Horan Software, and individual contributor Dagmawi Esayas, alongside Sticker Guy, who added a touch of creativity to the event.

Looking Ahead

As Codenight continues to grow, its influence in Ethiopia’s tech space will only deepen. The community is poised to inspire the next generation of developers, provide more opportunities for knowledge exchange, and contribute to the country’s economic development.

But at its core, Codenight remains true to its original mission: to bring people together in the spirit of learning and innovation. Its success is a reminder that when passionate individuals unite, they can transform not just their own careers but the industry around them.