We build accessible Linux distributions, advocate for digital freedom, and teach Linux skills to communities across East Africa.
Shrike Linux Uganda builds accessible Linux distributions and champions digital freedom. Spearheaded by Ugandan developer Romans Moses Masiga Saava (root1 shrike)—a dedicated sysadmin and FOSS advocate—we develop and maintain our core projects: ShrikeLinux, ArchShrike [Lanius], ShrikeV, Kampala Linux, Kiira Linux, Strike Linux, and Shrike Server.
We focus exclusively on free and open-source software, with Linux as our unshakeable foundation. XFCE serves as the default desktop across our main distributions, while also providing specialized tiling window manager options for power users.
To match your computing needs, our distributions offer three kernel options:
We build for the community. Share your ideas and feature requests for future releases with us on Mastodon or our other social channels. You can also explore our code on Codeberg and watch tutorials on our media platform ShrikeLens and on the Shrike Linux Uganda YouTube channel.
Thank you for visiting—proud to be Uganda's FOSS community.
Built by the community, for the community. Explore our range of Linux operating systems, tailored for every workflow. Click an image to enlarge.
Arch Based distribution offering editions for XFCE, spectrwm, dk, and i3. Built for maximum customization and workflow flexibility.
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Arch Based distribution uniquely offering both bspwm and XFCE desktops. Designed for efficient tiling workflows with a traditional fallback.
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Void Based distribution featuring XFCE as the default desktop. Utilizing the runit init system for an independent, lightning-fast, and stable experience.
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Arch Based distribution featuring XFCE with a customized Dracula Theme in a light tone. Engineered for prolonged productivity and visual comfort.
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Debian Based distribution featuring a highly stable, customized XFCE desktop. The reliable choice for standard workstations and everyday use.
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Arch Based server infrastructure, LTS Kernel with only essential server-associated packages. Hardened for data center and deployment environments.
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Arch Based security and penetration testing environment featuring the XFCE desktop. Equipped with 400+ auditing tools for cybersecurity professionals.
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Hear from the users, learners, and advocates who are part of the Shrike Linux Uganda family.
"Blazing boot times - under 8 seconds to desktop. XFCE tuned to perfection - lightweight, snappy, zero bloat. Pacman workflow installs anything instantly with AUR access."
"Insane responsiveness - fast desktop workflow even on old hardware. Workflow optimized with keybindings, dock, panels just work. Smart software selection - only what you need."
"Rocket speed - fastest package manager in the Linux world. XFCE masterpiece pre-configured for maximum productivity. Curated software optimized for speed."
"Shrike Server nails the server-only Arch vibe—LTS kernel keeps things rock-solid, and preloaded packages like Nginx and Podman mean you're hosting in minutes, no bloat."
"Strike Linux Security Edition crams 400+ pentest tools like Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark into an Arch base—boot and hack instantly, no installs required."
"Kiira Linux, a Debian based distro, fast and well customized. xfce4 with plank, LibreOffice, Sound - Audacity, Pipewire and MPV player and so many great software packages."
"Arch base means latest software with rolling updates. XFCE perfection - lightweight plus beautiful. Optimized with local mirrors for fast downloads. 3 kernel options to pick your performance flavor."
Whether you want to learn Linux, contribute to our distros, or advocate for FOSS, there is a place for you here. Connect with us.