With heavy hearts, we announce the untimely passing of Ingo Koll, widely known and deeply respected as Kipala, a shining star and dedicated administrator of the Swahili Wikipedia. Ingo embarked on his journey of crafting articles for the Swahili Wikipedia in 2005, and his exceptional contributions continued until June 2023. In his relentless pursuit of knowledge, he authored an astounding number of over 52,000 articles, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the dissemination of information.
As an esteemed administrator, Ingo exemplified excellence, diligence, and a passion for fostering a thriving community. He tirelessly monitored the activities within the Swahili Wikipedia, ensuring its smooth operation and offering invaluable guidance to fellow editors. His benevolent nature and warm embrace welcomed countless individuals into the world of Swahili Wikipedia, nurturing an environment of collaboration, inclusivity, and shared growth.
Among the many cherished friendships he formed, Ingo had a special bond with Muddyb, extending beyond the virtual realm of Wikipedia. They shared a profound connection that transcended mere collaboration, as they supported and uplifted each other’s work, even visiting each other’s homes. Their friendship symbolized the essence of the Wikimedia movement—forging meaningful connections and fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Ingo’s dedication to the Swahili Wikipedia was unparalleled. Despite his demanding responsibilities as a pastor, he always found time to contribute to the platform, enriching it with his knowledge and expertise. His unwavering belief in the power of collective intelligence and open collaboration led him to embark on numerous journeys, traveling to different countries to promote the growth of Wikipedia. Ingo’s efforts were instrumental in bridging gaps and empowering Swahili-speaking communities worldwide.
Ingo Koll’s contributions to the Swahili Wikipedia community and the broader Wikimedia movement will forever be etched in our hearts and minds. His tireless dedication, unwavering expertise, and selfless commitment to expanding the reach of the Swahili language have left an indelible mark on the movement. The impact of his work will continue to inspire and guide future generations of editors, reminding them of the transformative power of knowledge sharing.
Today, we mourn the loss of a dear friend, a trusted administrator, and a visionary contributor. Ingo Koll’s legacy will forever be cherished by the Swahili Wikipedia community and all those whose lives he touched.
Muddyb Mwanaharakati
Muddyb Mwanaharakati 