Addis Ababa, June 17, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia is strengthening its position as Africa’s leading adopter of electric vehicles by expanding reliable and resilient charging infrastructure across the country, State Minister of Transport and Logistics Bareo Hassen said. The state minister made the remarks during the inauguration of a major electric vehicle fast-charging station constructed within the Kilinto Special Economic Zone by the Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU) in collaboration with the Industrial Parks Development Corporation (IPDC). Speaking at the ceremony, Bareo said the government is accelerating the development of dedicated charging facilities nationwide to support the country's transition to clean transportation. He noted that the rapid expansion of high-capacity charging hubs demonstrates Ethiopia’s commitment to ensuring that its pioneering role in green mobility is supported by dependable and sustainable infrastructure. According to the state minister, these efforts reflect the government's determination to address climate change through practical and environmentally friendly transport solutions. Bareo also commended the institutions and stakeholders that contributed to the successful completion of the project and reaffirmed the ministry’s continued support for initiatives that promote green energy and sustainable transportation. Ethiopian Electric Utility Chief Executive Officer Getu Geremew said the utility is providing a dependable power supply in line with the objectives of Ethiopia’s Climate Resilient Green Economy strategy. He disclosed that the newly inaugurated facility is the fourth major fast-charging project completed under the utility’s clean transport master plan. Getu added that EEU is preparing to expand similar infrastructure across regional cities to meet the growing demand for electric vehicle services. He further revealed that engineering and design works are underway to install 16 advanced electric vehicle charging stations along the strategic Ethio-Djibouti trade corridor. Industrial Parks Development Corporation Chief Executive Officer Fiseha Yitagesu, on his part, described the launch of the charging station as both timely and essential, noting that it will contribute significantly to Ethiopia’s efforts to build a modern, green, and efficient transport ecosystem. He underscored that the hub serves as a direct manifestation of the progressive, green economic policies that Ethiopia continues to champion with remarkable consistency. He observed that Ethiopia’s dedicated green development trajectory is yielding profound successes, serving to catalyze and accelerate sustainable growth across all economic sectors. Identifying electric mobility as a cornerstone of this broader success, he emphasized that expanding the network of fast-charging hubs is crucial to adequately matching the exponential rise in domestic consumer demand for electric vehicles. Parallel to the inauguration ceremony, a symbolic tree-planting session was held within the premises of the Industrial Parks Development Corporation, further honoring the spirit of the national Green Legacy Initiative.

Addis Ababa, June 16, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia will host an international conference on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence aimed at strengthening Africa’s cyber resilience and supporting the secure adoption of AI amid rapid digital transformation next week. The conference, scheduled to take place from June 24 to 25, 2026, is organized by the Ethiopian Cybersecurity Association and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). Briefing journalists today, Ethiopian Cybersecurity Association President Berhane Beyene, said the conference will focus on strengthening Africa’s cyber resilience and data sovereignty as well as promoting the secure adoption of artificial intelligence. The event is expected to bring together government institutions, cybersecurity and AI organizations, regulatory bodies, academia, and businesses, he added.     Moreover, the conference will engage national security agencies and services, ICT and digital transformation ministers, Security Operation and Network Operation Centers practitioners, critical infrastructure operators, banks, telecommunications providers, utilities, AI security researchers and professionals, universities, innovation hubs, research institutes, global cybersecurity vendors, and development partners. According to the President, the conference will help to strengthen Africa’s cyber resilience through knowledge sharing and collaboration, present real-world cybersecurity implementation and incident response experience, and showcase AI-enabled security solutions. On his part, UNECA representative Amos Homodza said the conference is crucial as African countries accelerate digital transformation, with governments digitizing public services, businesses adopting cloud technologies, financial institutions expanding payment systems, and more organizations exploring the transformative potential of AI.     Homodza said AI is already shaping how people work, learn, govern, innovate, and deliver services. Cybersecurity has thus become a key enabler of trust in the digital future, and the two domains are increasingly intertwined. The conference, he said, will explore how to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities across sectors and how to harness AI responsibly, securely, and inclusively.

Addis Ababa, June 11, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has congratulated Ethiopians on the successful achievement of the 5 Million Ethiopian Coders Initiative milestone, describing it as a testament to the country's determination, talent, and digital potential. In a social media post shared today, the Prime Minister announced that Ethiopia has surpassed its target ahead of schedule, recording 5,005,146 enrollments in Programming, Data Analysis, Android Development, and Artificial Intelligence fundamentals since the initiative was launched on July 23, 2024. "What we set out to achieve in three years, we have accomplished in less than two," Prime Minister Abiy stated, attributing the achievement to the commitment and limitless potential of the Ethiopian people. The Prime Minister emphasized that the milestone marks not the end of the journey, but the beginning of a new phase of ambition. PM Abiy further noted that Ethiopia is now aiming to reach 7 million enrollments by August 2026, further accelerating the country's digital transformation agenda. Calling on young Ethiopians to seize the opportunity, he urged students to use their summer break to acquire valuable digital skills through the program's free training courses. "Register, learn, and return to your classrooms not just as students, but as certified digital leaders," the Premier said, highlighting that participants receive internationally recognized certification upon completion. The 5 Million Ethiopian Coders Initiative is one of the country's flagship digital capacity-building programs, designed to equip millions of citizens with skills needed to compete in the global digital economy and contribute to Ethiopia's technological advancement. "The future you build starts today," the Prime Minister concluded.

Addis Ababa, June 8, 2026 — The Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) has unveiled a new probiotic starter culture named “Etittuu,” which enables the fermentation of milk. The institute officially launched the product today during a joint discussion forum and exhibition organized in connection with World Milk Day. Speaking at the event, Agriculture Ministry Advisor and State Minister Ifa Muleta said the “Etittuu” probiotic starter culture will help save foreign currency by substituting imported products and is expected to make a significant contribution to increasing the productivity of milk and dairy products in Ethiopia.     He further noted that the innovation supports the government’s broader efforts to strengthen food security and nutrition under the country’s agricultural policy framework. He also highlighted the positive results being recorded under the Yelemat Tirufat (Bounty of the Basket) Initiative, launched at the initiative of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. According to him, the program has already generated tangible improvements in dairy production while helping stimulate investment and encourage greater private-sector participation in the livestock and dairy sectors. He added that the launch of the “Etittuu” probiotic starter culture is expected to further energize producers and other stakeholders across the dairy value chain. EIAR Director General, Professor Niguse Dechassa, on his part, said the newly developed probiotic starter culture will not only help reduce foreign currency expenditure on imported starter cultures but also enable pasteurized milk to be fermented within four hours, improving efficiency in dairy processing.     The Director General explained that milk and dairy products are among the key agricultural commodities on which the institute conducts research. He further highlighted the institute’s significant contribution to the agricultural sector through the development of improved crop and livestock varieties based on scientific research. According to him, various biotechnology-assisted research projects focusing on improving dairy productivity are currently underway.

Addis Ababa, May 30, 2026 —Ethiopia is looking to Israel’s Start-Up Nation model as it builds its own AI sector and strengthens technological cooperation. The relationship between Ethiopia and Israel stretches back thousands of years – to the days of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba – rooted in biblical tradition and strengthened over decades through diplomacy, migration, trade, and cultural exchange. Today, that relationship is increasingly being shaped by technology, investment, tourism, and innovation.   Speaking with The Jerusalem Post this week, Ethiopian Ambassador Tesfaye Yitayeh described a relationship that continues to deepen despite regional instability, war, and economic disruption across the Middle East. “The bilateral relationship between our two countries is very good,” Yitayeh told the Post. “I’m very much happy to be part of this process, and we work hard again to further strengthen this very good bilateral relationship for the benefit of our two peoples.” Modern relations between the two countries were formalized in 1956 with the establishment of embassies in Addis Ababa and Jerusalem. Early collaborations included Israeli assistance in military training and capacity-building in Ethiopia. These foundations laid the groundwork for the diverse partnership that is visible today. In recent years, Ethiopia has sought to position itself as one of Africa’s major emerging investment destinations, with Israeli companies increasingly active in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects. According to Yitayeh, one of the major developments over the past year was an official visit by President Isaac Herzog, as well as an investment forum held in Addis Ababa during Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar’s visit to Ethiopia last May. “Along with [Sa’ar], there were businesspeople, and the investment opportunities were presented to them by different Ethiopian government officials,” the ambassador explained. “They also had visits to show the opportunities on the ground for Israeli companies and investors.”   Israel in Ethiopia Israeli involvement in Ethiopia remains especially strong in agriculture, including horticulture, irrigation technologies, agro-processing, and coffee production. “Israelis are engaged in agriculture, especially high-value crops,” Yitayeh said. “Their best technologies, drip irrigation technologies, are being disseminated.”   He added that Israeli companies are also increasingly interested in Ethiopia’s digital economy, logistics sector, and infrastructure development projects, including a new major airport currently under construction southeast of Addis Ababa. “The Israelis are very much interested in the cybersecurity and digital aspect of this ultramodern and big airport,” he said. Agriculture and water management continue to stand at the center of Ethiopia’s interest in Israeli expertise. “You know, Israelis are good at using a scarce resource, that is water,” Yitayeh said. “Efficiently, effectively using water in terms of water management.” Though Ethiopia possesses far greater natural water resources than Israel, the ambassador said the country still has much to learn regarding efficiency, recycling, irrigation, and year-round agricultural production. “In the rainy season, there is plenty of water. In the dry season, there is a shortage,” he explained. “We need to produce agricultural products throughout the year. The missing element is water.” Israel’s MASHAV international development agency has played a significant role in helping Ethiopian agricultural development, particularly in avocado cultivation. “MASHAV has already trained a number of our agronomists and horticulturists,” Yitayeh said. “It played a very pivotal role in avocado development and cultivation. Now Ethiopia is able to export avocados to the European market.” Beyond agriculture, Ethiopia is increasingly looking toward Israel’s technology sector as a model for its own ambitions in artificial intelligence and innovation. Ethiopia looks to Israel’s technology sector “Israel calls itself a Start-Up Nation, and Ethiopia is also trying its own version of a start-up,” Yitayeh said. “But it is in the infant stage.” The ambassador revealed that Ethiopia has already established a national artificial intelligence center and is planning to open an AI-focused university in the coming years. “The government already gave due attention to artificial intelligence,” he said. “There is an artificial intelligence center which was established three or four years ago. “I hope, by next year or the year after, we will establish an artificial intelligence university so that our youngsters will get training,” he continued. “Hopefully, after five or six years, we will be able to work using AI in different economic sectors.” Yitayeh added that Ethiopia hopes to work closely with Israel in the field. “Israel is much advanced in using artificial intelligence,” he said. “So Ethiopia again will learn a lot in this regard as well.” Energy is another sector rapidly changing Ethiopia’s economic landscape. When the Post last spoke to Yitayeh, in January 2025, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam had not yet officially opened. Since then, Ethiopia formally inaugurated the massive hydroelectric project on the Blue Nile, which the ambassador said is already transforming the country’s energy capacity and attracting foreign investment. “The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam alone adds more than 5,000 megawatts of electricity annually,” he told the Post. “One of the comparative advantages that Ethiopia has is its cheap energy supply.” The ambassador said the dam is already helping attract foreign manufacturers and investors to Ethiopia’s industrial parks. “We are seeing many companies from the Far East or elsewhere in the world coming and installing their production sites in Ethiopia,” he said. Ethiopia has also begun exporting electricity to neighboring countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Sudan, and Djibouti, with future supply plans extending to South Sudan and Somalia. “Ethiopia is in a position to be the electric powerhouse in the Horn of Africa or East Africa,” Yitayeh told the Post. At the same time, the ambassador acknowledged that the regional wars involving Israel and Iran have had a significant economic impact on Ethiopia. “The war has always played a very negative role in economic development and attracting investment,” he said. He specifically pointed to rising global oil prices and fertilizer shortages caused by the disruption in the region. “The price of fuel is skyrocketing,” he said. “It affected not only the investment flow, but the normal day-to-day life of the people.” Yitayeh noted that Ethiopia Airlines was forced to suspend flights to Israel for more than a month after Israeli airspace closures during the war with Iran, before quickly resuming service once flights were permitted again. Tourism, however, remains one of the ambassador’s biggest priorities. “The unique nature of Ethiopia-Israel tourism is that it is a two-bound one,” he explained. On one side are Ethiopian Christian pilgrims visiting Israel’s holy sites, including Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River. On the other are Israeli Ethiopians traveling back to visit their ancestral homeland. “So many people are going to Ethiopia and visiting the places where their ancestors were farming, were praying, where the graveyards are,” he said. Yitayeh believes tourism between the two countries still has enormous untapped potential. “The number of Israelis visiting Ethiopia is small,” he said. “We need to increase the number of Israelis who are visiting, taking into account the historic relationships and ties between our two countries.” He pointed to Ethiopia’s growing tourism infrastructure, including new resorts and improved travel facilities developed over the past several years. “There are a lot of tourist destination sites in Ethiopia,” he said. “Historic, cultural, ethnic, natural.” The ambassador also revealed that discussions have begun internally regarding the possibility of a future visa waiver agreement between Israel and Ethiopia. “A visa waiver is very important,” Yitayeh said, “so people can move easily. Visas should not be a barrier to travel either to Ethiopia or Israel.” Israel's Ethiopian Jewish community The Ethiopian Jewish community in Israel continues to serve as a bridge between the two nations, with many members maintaining strong emotional, cultural, and family ties to Ethiopia. Israelis of Ethiopian origin are entitled to a special visa waiver known as an Ethiopian Origin ID, which allows them to stay in the country beyond the usual three-month period allowed under the tourist visa. According the ambassador, Ethiopians have a very positive view of the Jewish state across the Red Sea, with many Ethiopians admiring Israel’s resilience and technological achievements. “People are very much interested in the way Israel changed this country as a whole,” he said. “They are very appreciative of the technological level and the resilience of Israeli society.” He added that many Ethiopians are fascinated by Israel’s achievements in desalination, recycling, agriculture, and innovation. “They wanted to come and see this development,” he said. “They wanted to prove whether it is true or not.” Another growing area of cooperation between the two countries is academia. The ambassador revealed that several Israeli and Ethiopian universities are now developing partnerships involving joint research, scholarships, and academic exchanges. Among them are collaborations between Holon Institute of Technology and the Ethiopian Science and Technology University, as well as Ben-Gurion University and Addis Ababa University. “They identified about eight areas of cooperation and collaboration,” Yitayeh said. “There will be joint research, academic exchange, and scholarship programs. “We are doing that, and it is going in the right direction,” he added. “But we have to work hard to do more.”

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 —Senior Ethiopian government officials say the country is making significant strides toward gaining full control of its national data ecosystem, as part of broader efforts to strengthen policy independence, enhance governance efficiency, and accelerate economic transformation. The announcement was made during a national conference held in Addis Ababa under the theme “Data Sovereignty for Policy Autonomy,” attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and senior government officials. Officials said Ethiopia is rapidly expanding control over how national data is collected, stored, managed, and used in policymaking—marking a major shift away from fragmented systems that previously relied heavily on external support.   The conference underscored the government’s efforts to build a self-reliant statistical and digital governance framework capable of producing credible, locally generated data to guide national development priorities. Officials noted that Ethiopia has made substantial progress in documenting its development achievements through stronger statistical systems, helping shift policymaking toward evidence-based decision-making. Minister of Planning and Development Fitsum Assefa said Ethiopia is transitioning from foreign-dependent data systems to a self-reliant model rooted in Prime Minister Abiy’s Medemer philosophy. She noted that newly introduced household, tourism, and business surveys are helping shape reforms under Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda and the country’s Ten-Year Development Plan.   State Minister of Planning and Development Abas Mohammed said official statistics become effective governance tools when they are legally protected, technically sound, and publicly accessible. He highlighted progress in household surveys, full dissemination of the Demographic and Health Survey, and advances in agricultural and economic censuses led by Ethiopian professionals. Deputy Director of the Ethiopian Statistical Service Dr. Meron Kifelew said the country has transitioned from paper-based systems to fully digitized real-time data operations using technologies such as Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, cloud infrastructure, and an enumerator tracking platform developed with Information Network Security Administration. She said Ethiopia has connected 26 statistical branches nationwide and introduced an AI-powered survey dashboard as part of efforts to build sovereign digital intelligence capabilities.   Another ESS official, Abdulaziz Shefa said national statistics are increasingly being placed at the center of development planning, citing improvements in agricultural census systems and demographic surveys aligned with Agenda 2063 and the United Nations. State Minister Bereket Feshatsion said development management reforms are modernizing planning, monitoring, and service delivery by addressing fragmented systems and weak accountability structures. He noted that a unified digital platform currently used by more than 113 public institutions is enabling real-time performance monitoring under the government’s “One Plan, One Report” framework. Meanwhile, State Minister Zerihun Kebede said Ethiopia’s digital sovereignty agenda has moved from ambition to implementation through a national monitoring and evaluation platform that integrates key indicators, programs, and performance targets into one system. He said the platform is designed to eliminate fragmented reporting systems and support institutions with real-time, AI-powered insights for better policymaking. Director General of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute Worku Gachena said Ethiopia is also building sovereign digital infrastructure to ensure national data is stored, governed, and processed domestically.   He highlighted plans under Digital Ethiopia 2030 to establish sovereign cloud infrastructure, a national data lakehouse, and indigenous multilingual AI models designed to support local languages and generate economic value. Officials said the initiative reflects Ethiopia’s broader push to strengthen national sovereignty through technology while positioning the country as an emerging regional leader in data-driven governance and digital transformation.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underscored Ethiopia’s growing strides toward data and statistical sovereignty during the national conference and exhibition held under the theme, “Data Sovereignty for Policy Autonomy.” The Prime Minister noted that the event marked a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward strengthening its capacity to generate, manage, and utilize its own data resources for national development.   He described the progress achieved in the sector as encouraging and emphasized that, in today’s world, data has become a strategic national asset and a fundamental pillar of sovereignty. According to Prime Minister Abiy, building a strong nation-state requires independent and reliable data systems, stressing that reliance on borrowed data or external institutions cannot effectively support Ethiopia’s long-term national ambitions.   The PM further highlighted that developing domestic capacity to collect, analyze, and interpret data is essential to ensuring policy autonomy and evidence-based decision-making. The Prime Minister also expressed pride in seeing Ethiopians lead data collection and analysis through their own expertise and innovation, describing it as a reflection of the country’s growing self-reliance.   He also stressed that data initiatives should go beyond numerical measurements and remain focused on improving the lives of citizens, emphasizing the need for human-centered approaches that deliver tangible social and economic benefits.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 —A national conference centered on the theme: “Data Sovereignty for Policy Autonomy” is underway in Addis Ababa in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and senior government officials. The conference underscores Ethiopia’s increasing focus on strengthening its statistical capacity and ensuring that national development plans are guided by credible, locally generated data. Officials said Ethiopia has made significant progress in documenting its development goals and achievements through data and statistical evidence, marking a major shift from its past reliance on fragmented and externally supported data systems.   The move reflects the country’s broader commitment to achieving data sovereignty and enhancing policy independence by relying on nationally owned information systems for decision-making. Moreover, authorities noted that this new direction is enabling Ethiopia to make informed decisions based on its own data while shaping a development path that aligns with its national priorities. Participants at the conference are expected to assess the progress made in Ethiopia’s statistical development journey, review milestones achieved in securing data sovereignty, and discuss future strategies to further strengthen the country’s data systems.   The event is viewed as a key platform for advancing Ethiopia’s efforts to build a more independent, data-driven policy framework.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 — —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, together with senior government officials, toured an exhibition on national planning and integrated data systems today in Addis Ababa. The exhibition indicates Ethiopia’s expanding shift toward data driven governance and the display formed part of the National Summit on Statistical Sovereignty and introduced new tools designed to strengthen how national information is collected, processed, and presented for policy use.   According to a post from Office of the Prime Minister, the exhibition featured sector-based dashboards developed to support decision making in infrastructure, economic planning, and social service delivery. The post stated, “Senior government official tour of the exhibit on national planning and statistical dashboards and systems featured at the National Summit on Statistical Sovereignty, showcasing Ethiopia’s data-driven development future.”   The showcased systems demonstrated efforts to improve coordination and real time visualization of national indicators, with officials observing how integrated platforms can support planning across key government sectors.

Addis Ababa, May 8, 2026 —Ethiopia is prioritizing the development of robust digital infrastructure that empowers the next generation of digital creators and storytellers, Bereket Driba, Ethiopia’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the AU and UNECA, said. Speaking at the inaugural African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) 2026 held at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, Bereket Driba, Ethiopia’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the AU and UNECA, outlined the government's vision to transform the nation into a digital gateway for the continent. According to Bereket, the Ethiopian government is prioritizing expanded digital connectivity to help creators collaborate, innovate, and participate in public interest initiatives.   He emphasized that while creators may choose to work independently, the government is also seeking partnerships with digital influencers and content producers on national priorities, particularly in promoting Ethiopia’s tourism sector. The nation has been actively inviting creators and supporting initiatives such as the summit, describing the effort as part of broader measures to welcome influencers and strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem, he added. Bereket also stressed the importance of using digital influence to drive broader change across Africa. According to him, although many African countries enjoy political freedom, citizens should also examine whether genuine freedom is reflected in the practical use of digital platforms and influence. The diplomat also noted that social media influencers can play a major role in shaping policy directions and advancing African integration by improving understanding among countries, enhancing cross border visibility, and supporting the aspirations of AU’s Agenda 2063. For her part, Strategic Planning and Delivery Director at the AU Commission, Botho Kebabonye Bayendi, said Africa is entering what she described as a decade of acceleration.   However, she warned that while policies and regional strategies designed to promote digital growth and content creation already exist, implementation by member states remains weak. “Frameworks are there, the policies are there, we lack implementation,” Bayendi said, noting that AU level commitments often take considerable time before they are adopted nationally. Bayendi encouraged digital creators to use the borderless nature of social media to advocate for policy implementation, arguing that digital platforms now provide easier access to AU and national leadership than traditional channels. She further called on member states to align AU and UN policy frameworks with national development plans, stressing that the effectiveness of strategies should be measured through concrete implementation rather than repeated policy drafting. The AU official also linked digital governance with broader governance values, saying that the treatment of outsiders, tourism management, migration, and exports should reflect a pan African approach. She underscored the importance of data governance and protection, particularly in situations where content creators may face suspicion or have equipment confiscated under security claims that contradict regional policy commitments. International human rights lawyer and strategic advisor Ashagrie G. Abdi said social media influencers can no longer be viewed merely as entertainers or storytellers.   According to Abdi, audiences, including policymakers, increasingly rely on influencer generated content to understand events and developments, giving creators growing influence over national and continental decision making. He urged creators to speak honestly, including by criticizing failures where necessary, and called on institutions such as the AU to engage meaningfully with influencer communities instead of overlooking their impact. Overall, panelists emphasized that accurate information can strengthen public trust and support development agendas, while misinformation can cause serious harm. They described the role of digital creators as extending beyond promotion to include accountability and public interest engagement.

Addis Ababa, May 8, 2026 —Digital creators and social media influencers from across Africa have called for stronger monetization systems, policy reforms, and greater institutional support to help the continent’s creative industry compete globally in the digital era. Speaking during panel discussions at the African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) in Addis Ababa, participants said African creators remain disadvantaged despite the rapid growth of social media and digital entrepreneurship worldwide. The discussions centered on how artificial intelligence is transforming content creation, while also exposing the structural challenges many African creators face in generating sustainable income. Panelists described AI as a game-changing tool that is making content production faster, cheaper, and more accessible by helping creators produce videos, images, scripts, subtitles, thumbnails, and audio content with limited resources.   Nigerian comedian and digital creator Brain Jotter said artificial intelligence has become particularly valuable for young creators who may lack advanced production skills. According to him, AI allows creators to turn simple ideas into professional-quality content while expanding creativity across industries. Despite acknowledging AI’s growing influence, some participants warned against overdependence on technology. Botswana-based digital creator William Last KRM said originality and passion remain critical to long-term success, noting that he still prefers relying on his own imagination rather than artificial intelligence tools. Beyond technology, creators said monetization remains one of the biggest obstacles facing Africa’s digital economy. They argued that while platforms such as TikTok and YouTube have created billion-dollar industries globally, many African creators still lack access to full monetization features available in other parts of the world. Some participants said the restrictions have forced many creators to depend on brand sponsorships, partnerships, or even foreign-based accounts to generate revenue.   The influencers urged African governments and policymakers to recognize content creators as key contributors to tourism promotion, cultural diplomacy, investment attraction, and the broader digital economy. They called for financial support systems, improved digital infrastructure, and regulations that encourage innovation without restricting creativity. A recurring theme throughout the summit was the need for Africans to take ownership of the continent’s narrative and challenge long-standing stereotypes through authentic storytelling. The summit, held at the Adwa Victory Memorial, brought together 61 influencers from 30 African countries with a combined audience of more than 321 million followers. An additional 120 Ethiopian content creators, representing a combined following of 150 million people, are also participating in the event, which is focused on shaping a new digital narrative for Africa.

Addis Ababa, May 8, 2026 —African digital influencers must unite their voices to accelerate the continent’s transformation, according to Gemeda Olana, CEO of AGA Tech Enterprise. Gemeda made the remarks today during the opening of the inaugural African Social Media Influencers Summit in Addis Ababa. “Social media influencers today are educators, brand builders, tourism ambassadors, cultural diplomats, and the most authentic voice of the new African generation,” Gemeda said. He stressed the growing role of African digital creators in shaping public opinion, expanding economic opportunities, and projecting a confident image of Africa to the global community. According to him, influencers across the continent are increasingly helping reshape narratives about Africa, inspiring young people, and strengthening the continent’s place within the global digital economy. The summit brought together digital creators from across Africa, it was indicated. According to the CEO, ASMIS was established with the ambition of becoming Africa’s largest and most influential digital platform. He said the summit seeks to strengthen collaboration among influencers, innovators, brands, and institutions across the continent. “This summit is not merely about gaining followers or creating viral content, but about influence, impact, and shaping Africa’s future through purposeful digital engagement,” he stated. Gemeda noted that ASMIS aims to serve as a strategic bridge connecting African creativity with global opportunities, untapped talent with investment, and young creators with institutions capable of supporting innovation and growth. He added that the summit is designed to promote partnerships, knowledge sharing, digital entrepreneurship, tourism promotion, cultural pride, and a new era of authentic African storytelling. The CEO also praised the participation of prominent African content creators, including Wode Maya, highlighting the growing influence of digital creators in inspiring communities and shaping future generations. Addressing participants, Gemeda said, “A single video can spark a movement, a single post can create economic opportunities, and one creator can inspire an entire generation,” underscoring the transformative potential of Africa’s expanding digital ecosystem. He also expressed appreciation to international guests, sponsors, government institutions, and supporting organizations for investing in Africa’s digital future and supporting youth-led innovation and digital diplomacy. Gemeda further revealed plans to expand ASMIS into a premier annual African digital summit with broader continental participation and world-class standards in future editions. He also announced plans to launch the African Social Media Influencers Awards beginning next year as part of efforts to elevate Africa’s digital industry on the global stage. Concluding his remarks, Gemeda called for stronger partnerships capable of transforming Africa’s digital landscape and nurturing a new generation of fearless, globally competitive African digital leaders. He also welcomed participants to Addis Ababa, describing Ethiopia as a gateway to the future of Africa’s digital power.

Addis Ababa, May 2, 2026 —The Ethiopian Space Science Society (ESSS) has laid the foundation for Ethiopia's efforts to build a scientific community, according to Demeke Mekonnen, former Deputy Prime Minister and patron of the Society. The 21st General Assembly of the Ethiopian Space Science Society is underway in the capital city.   Speaking on the occasion, the former Deputy Prime Minister and patron said the Society has been playing a significant role in implementing the principle that Ethiopia will build a scientific generation. Accordingly, institutions like the Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial have been established through the commitments of the Ethiopian Space Science Society and the government, he added. The institute, which has produced internationally renowned researchers and astronomers, is also a product of the Ethiopian Space Science Society, Demeke stated. Noting that the Ethiopian Space Science Society has been carrying out promising activities in the past two decades in producing many young researches, he said more needs to be done to ensure the competitiveness of the Society.   According to him, preparations should be made to keep up with the global digital revolution and artificial intelligence as mankind is entering a new chapter. The former Deputy Prime Minister advised against being to complacent and pointed out the key role of the youth in this regard. Ethiopian Space Science Society Deputy Director-General, Yeshurun Alemayehu, said the Society is a great asset to the development of space science.   Noting its role for the establishment of the Space Science and Geospatial Institute, he added that it is making a significant contribution by equipping youths in science. Stating that space science is a matter of sovereignty, food security, diplomacy, health, and international politics, Yeshurun said it is impossible to survive without space science.

Addis Ababa, May 1, 2026 — Young Ethiopians trained under the national Five Million Ethio Coders program are developing homegrown digital systems that are beginning to modernize public institutions and improve service delivery across sectors. Trainees in Addis Ababa say the program has equipped them with practical expertise in software development, data science, and artificial intelligence, enabling them to design solutions that directly respond to institutional challenges. The Addis Ababa City Administration Innovation and Technology Development Bureau confirmed that the initiative is shaping a new generation of digitally skilled youth capable of enhancing efficiency through technology-driven solutions. Launched on July 16, 2024, under the initiative of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the Five Million Ethio Coders program aims to equip citizens nationwide with advanced digital knowledge and practical skills. At its launch, the Prime Minister described the initiative as a strategic platform to nurture a capable workforce that will drive Ethiopia’s technological advancement and national development. The program continues to attract young participants seeking internationally recognized certification while expanding their expertise in key digital fields. Thousands of trainees are already gaining hands-on skills in web development, Android application development, data science, and artificial intelligence, with many developing locally relevant technologies that have broader applications across Africa. Speaking to ENA, participants said the training has enabled them to build practical systems focused on solving real institutional and societal problems. Getasew Abebe, an ICT specialist at the Addis Ababa City Environmental Protection Authority, said he completed all four training modules within a short period.     “The training gave me the practical skills to develop Android applications and other digital systems,” he said. He added that nine technology systems he developed through the program have been recognized by the city administration and are now operational. Another trainee, Azmeraw Tadesse, an Information Technology graduate of Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, said the initiative significantly strengthened his technical capacity.     He noted that he developed a digital platform called Addis Ababa Coders, which tracks and displays Ethio Coders training activities across all sub-cities of the capital. Deputy Head of the Addis Ababa City Innovation and Technology Development Bureau, Tulu Tilahun, said the program is playing a key role in building a digitally competent society. “The program is creating opportunities to produce citizens equipped with the digital knowledge and skills needed for the country’s technological transformation,” he said.     He added that graduates are already contributing to systems that promote modern, efficient, and reliable public service delivery. According to the bureau, Addis Ababa initially set a target to train more than 809,000 citizens under the program. So far, over 900,000 people have registered, while about 678,000 have completed the training. Officials emphasized that equal focus is being given to all four digital skills pathways to ensure the development of competent and globally competitive professionals.

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2026 —Kenya and France will jointly host the Africa Forward Summit on innovation from 11 to 12 May 2026, in Nairobi. The submit will bring together leaders, investors, and innovators to deepen cooperation on development, technology, and inclusive economic growth. The high-level gathering will be co-led by President William Ruto and President Emmanuel Macron, marking the first major France-Africa summit hosted with an English-speaking African nation. The meeting is expected to signal a renewed partnership approach focused on innovation, investment flows, and more balanced global relations. Building on earlier engagements and feeding into France’s 2026 G7 presidency, the summit will address key global and continental priorities, including development financing, peace and security, fair global governance, sustainable economic models, green energy transition, AI-driven agriculture for food security, and youth skills development. A major highlight will be a Business Forum scheduled for May 11 at the University of Nairobi, expected to attract about 1,500 business leaders, investors, and innovators. The forum is designed to connect private sector initiatives with employment creation and enterprise growth opportunities across Africa. In a press briefing today, Kenyan Ambassador to Ethiopia and the African Union, Galma Mukhe Boru, emphasized that the summit comes at a time of rapid global change. “The Africa Forward Summit comes at a time when the world is undergoing profound transformation from climate change to technological disruption, to food security and global economic reform,” he said. He further stated that coordinated action is now essential, noting that “Africa today is a continent of opportunity, home to a youthful population, expanding digital economies and growing innovation ecosystems.” Boru also emphasized Kenya’s pride in hosting the event, saying it goes beyond “historical and linguistic divides,” with the Business Forum placing “the private sector at the center of the summit.” French Ambassador to Ethiopia and the African Union, Alexis Lamek, on his part underscored the inclusive nature of the initiative, stating, “this Africa Forward Summit will illustrate the rich diversity of relations between Africa and France, which are relations built around a wide variety of actors.” He further noted that nearly 400 young participants from across Africa will attend, including youth leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, athletes, creators, and members of the diaspora. According to him, the discussions will also contribute to France’s G7 agenda, particularly efforts to “reform international institutions in order to improve Africa’s representation in global governance.” Alongside policy dialogues, the summit will feature youth-led initiatives, cultural exchanges in sports, arts, and fashion, as well as investment showcases, positioning Africa as an emerging global hub for innovation and opportunity.

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2026 — Ethiopia is accelerating efforts to expand Artificial Intelligence (AI) development and fast track digitalization through domestic capacity, according to sector leaders. Belete Esubalew, CEO of Information Technology Park, said the park was established with the vision of positioning Ethiopia as an innovation hub in Africa. He noted that more than 80 local and international companies are currently engaged in innovation driven activities within the park. “The government is striving to substitute imports of innovative products and services by building domestic capacity,” he added. According to the CEO, foreign firms operating in the park play a key role in knowledge transfer while supporting the country’s push for import substitution. “They mainly contribute through knowledge transfer and are also supporting import substitution of innovative products and services,” he underlined. He added that the contribution is already visible in electronics manufacturing. “Especially in electronics manufacturing, they have already contributed to about 50 percent import substitution by producing locally,” he said. Belete also stressed that efforts are underway to create an enabling environment for the implementation of artificial intelligence through infrastructure expansion. He pointed out that ICT parks, reliable power supply, fiber connectivity and other essential infrastructure have been developed to support the sector. “AI is providing several opportunities by making life easier, reducing reliance on human labor, saving time and enabling faster execution of tasks,” he said. He acknowledged existing challenges in areas such as data availability, language and cultural contexts. “There are challenges related to data, language and culture in implementing AI, but we are working to address these issues and to be well prepared to widely and effectively utilize AI tools,” he underscored. He further noted that digital transformation remains a central government priority, with a new roadmap already in place following the Digital Ethiopia 2025 initiative. “After the completion of Digital Ethiopia 2025, the Digital 2030 strategy has been introduced to sustain momentum,” he said. He added that both local and international companies are aligning their activities with the country’s broader digital strategy. African Digital and Innovation Technology Academy Board Chairman Baheru Zeyenu said the government has created a supportive environment through policy frameworks and infrastructure development, but stressed that stronger private sector participation is essential. “Private companies need to actively engage in developing innovative products and applying AI across sectors,” he said. He highlighted the importance of applying artificial intelligence in key areas such as agriculture, education and health to boost productivity and service delivery. Baheru also noted that his organization, in collaboration with the Information Technology Park, recently organized a seminar aimed at raising awareness among leaders on AI adoption. “The seminar is designed to provide clear insights into AI and its practical applications, particularly how it is transforming leadership, business and public service,” he said.

By Staff Writer Addis Ababa, April 26, 2026 (ENA) —It was a week that placed Ethiopia at the intersection of technology, diplomacy, and democratic progress—projecting a more confident voice not only within Africa but across global platforms. From digital leadership to continental trade and high-level diplomacy, the country’s trajectory reflected both ambition and momentum. A Continental Mandate in the Age of AI The defining moment of the week came with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s appointment as the African Union Champion for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health. Far from symbolic, the designation signals growing recognition of Ethiopia’s expanding role in shaping Africa’s digital future. This appointment reflects a broader continental consensus: Ethiopia is emerging as a testing ground for digital transformation, where policy, infrastructure, and innovation are advancing in tandem. Under its Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy—often extended toward a “Digital 2030” vision; the country has accelerated efforts to build a digitally enabled economy, expand connectivity, and modernize public services. Progress is visible across sectors. Digital ID systems, e-governance platforms, and technology-driven solutions in healthcare and education are beginning to reshape service delivery. While challenges remain in scaling and inclusion, these initiatives have positioned Ethiopia as a country experimenting with practical, scalable digital models.   A key milestone has been the establishment of Ethiopia’s Artificial Intelligence Institute. The institution is helping anchor national ambitions in research and local innovation, with a focus on AI applications tailored to African realities—from agriculture and health diagnostics to language technologies. In emphasizing knowledge-sharing across the continent, the Prime Minister framed technology not as a guarded advantage but as a collective resource. The message aligns with the African Union’s wider goal: ensuring Africa becomes not just a consumer of global technologies, but an active creator. Still, the appointment carries expectations. Leadership in AI and digital health will require sustained investment, strong governance frameworks, and careful navigation of ethical and regulatory challenges. Ethiopia’s role now extends beyond national progress to continental influence. Democracy and Participation Ethiopia’s democratic process also marked a significant milestone. The National Election Board announced that more than 50.5 million voters have been registered. The figure highlights both the scale of participation and the logistical complexity of organizing elections in a country as large and diverse as Ethiopia. While questions around electoral processes and inclusivity persist, the registration milestone signals continued efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and civic engagement. Diplomacy in the Neighborhood Diplomatically, Addis Ababa reaffirmed its role as a regional hub. Prime Minister Abiy hosted South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit for a two-day official visit.   The talks emphasized cooperation on peace, economic ties, and regional stability. The visit served as a reminder that Ethiopia’s foreign policy remains closely tied to neighborhood relations, where stability and collaboration are mutually reinforcing priorities. Economic Shifts and Global Partnerships On the economic front, Ethiopia’s engagement with global partners is evolving. At the EU–Ethiopia Business Forum 2026, officials highlighted a shift from traditional aid toward investment-led partnerships and stronger private sector involvement. This transition reflects a broader recalibration: Ethiopia is positioning itself less as a recipient of assistance and more as a destination for trade and investment. Supporting that shift, the European Union announced a €269 million RISE program aimed at modernizing Ethiopia’s power grid—an initiative expected to improve energy reliability and support industrial growth.   At the same time, Ethiopian officials signaled interest in expanding trade ties with South Korea, pointing to a more diversified economic strategy. Regionally, Ethiopia’s progress within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) drew attention. The country’s deeper integration into continental trade frameworks is seen as a step toward unlocking new markets, though its success will depend on competitiveness, infrastructure, and regulatory alignment. Addis Ababa’s Digital Ambitions At home, Addis Ababa continues to position itself as an emerging digital hub. Preparations for ASMIS 2026 are reinforcing the city’s growing role in Africa’s technology landscape. Discussions around innovation, infrastructure, and digital leadership are increasingly grounded in current developments rather than future aspirations. Still, translating ambition into inclusive growth—ensuring benefits reach across urban and rural populations—remains a central challenge. A Nation in Transition Taken together, the week’s developments portray a country navigating transition. Ethiopia is balancing domestic priorities with an expanding regional and global presence—advancing digital transformation, strengthening democratic processes, and redefining international partnerships. The direction is clear, but the path forward will require sustained effort, careful policy choices, and resilience in the face of both internal and external pressures. What emerges is a narrative not only of ambition, but of a nation working to align vision with reality.

By Staff Writer Addis Ababa, April 22, 2026 —Africa’s technological future is no longer a distant ambition. It’s unfolding now. And at the center of that shift stands Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, newly appointed by the African Union as Champion for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health. This isn’t just a ceremonial title. It’s a signal: Ethiopia is stepping into a leadership role that could help define how Africa builds, governs, and benefits from the age of intelligent technologies. For Ethiopia, this moment didn’t arrive overnight. It is the result of a deliberate, years-long effort to transform ambition into infrastructure, and vision into systems that work. Under its sweeping Digital Ethiopia strategies—first 2025, now stretching toward 2030, the East African Nation has been quietly laying digital foundations: expanding connectivity, modernizing governance, and nurturing innovation ecosystems. What was once seen as aspirational is now transitioning into an operational reality. One of the boldest moves came in 2020, when Ethiopia launched the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, a pioneering step not just for the country, but for the continent. In a region often framed as catching up technologically, Ethiopia chose instead to build forward. It wasn’t just about adopting AI, but about shaping it, developing local expertise, fostering research as well as ensuring that African realities inform African solutions. Now, with continental responsibility in hand, Ethiopia’s mission expands. This is where the story becomes more interesting and more consequential. The country is no longer only building for itself; it is positioned to become a bridge across Africa’s diverse digital landscape. The opportunity is powerful: share what works, be honest about what doesn’t, and help other nations leapfrog barriers that once slowed progress. In doing so, Ethiopia can help craft an African model of AI, one rooted not only in efficiency and innovation, but in inclusion, ethics, and real societal impact. Because this isn’t just about algorithms or data centers. It’s about people. It’s about using AI to improve healthcare delivery, strengthen public institutions, expand access to services, and unlock opportunities for millions, especially Africa’s rapidly growing youth population. The African Union’s endorsement reflects this broader vision. In recognizing Prime Minister Abiy’s leadership, it underscores a belief that Africa must move from being a passive consumer of global technologies to an active creator of its own digital destiny. A continent that builds tools aligned with its values, its challenges, and its aspirations. Ethiopia’s approach leans heavily on collaboration, what the Prime Minister often frames through the philosophy of ‘Medemer,’ or synergy. The idea is simple but powerful: progress is strongest when it is shared. Plans for a dedicated AI university, combined with youth-focused initiatives like coding programs and digital skills training, suggest Ethiopia is investing not just in technology, but in the people who will shape it. And that may be the most important part of this story. Because leadership in AI isn’t just about who builds the most advanced systems. It’s about who ensures those systems serve humanity best. Ethiopia’s rise in this space signals something larger than national progress. It reflects a continent in motion, increasingly confident in its ability to define its own future. The road ahead will not be simple. Building inclusive, ethical and scalable AI ecosystems across Africa will require coordination, trust, and sustained investment. But Ethiopia’s trajectory suggests it is ready for that challenge. From a nation once seen primarily through the lens of history, Ethiopia is now helping write a new chapter, one where Africa doesn’t just adapt to the future of technology, but actively shapes it.

Addis Ababa, April 23, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to sharing its artificial intelligence (AI) experience across Africa and strengthening continental partnerships to adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape. The premier made the remark following his meeting with Director General of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Jean Kaseya, earlier today. In a social media post after the meeting, Prime Minister Abiy described the discussion as productive, noting that it covered a range of priority issues, including his newly entrusted continental responsibility. “ I (had) good meeting this morning with Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, during which we discussed a range of priorities, including the new responsibility entrusted to me as the African Union Champion for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health,” he stated. The Prime Minister emphasized that innovation remains central to Africa’s development trajectory, particularly in addressing emerging health challenges. “As we navigate evolving health challenges, harnessing the power of AI and digital technologies will be essential to strengthening our health systems, expanding access, and delivering better outcomes for our people,” he said. Reiterating Ethiopia’s continental outlook, PM Abiy stressed the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. “Ethiopia remains committed to sharing its experience across the continent and forging strong partnerships to effectively adapt to a rapidly evolving technological landscape,” he underscored. The Premier further expressed readiness to work closely with continental institutions and partners to translate vision into action. “I look forward to working closely with Africa CDC and partners across the continent to translate this vision into tangible, inclusive impact,” the prime minister added. The remarks come following Prime Minister Abiy’s recent appointment by the African Union as Champion for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health, in recognition of his leadership in advancing digital transformation and emerging technologies in Africa. According to the appointment letter, his leadership “has helped position artificial intelligence as a key tool for sovereignty, efficiency, and inclusive growth in Africa.” It also highlighted that his continued advocacy for “strategic autonomy and technological empowerment” will play a vital role in positioning the continent as a global leader in responsible and equitable AI adoption. Ethiopia has in recent years made significant strides in digital transformation, including expanding digital infrastructure, rolling out e-government services, and investing in innovation ecosystems. A major milestone in the country’s AI journey was the establishment of Africa’s first Artificial Intelligence Institute in 2020, laying the foundation for research and development in emerging technologies. The government is also finalizing preparations to launch a dedicated AI university aimed at strengthening talent development, research capacity, and continental collaboration. These efforts form part of Ethiopia’s broader vision to leverage technology for inclusive growth, enhance service delivery, and contribute to Africa’s digital and health transformation agenda.

Addis Ababa, April 23, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has been appointed as the African Union Champion for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health, in recognition of his leadership in advancing digital transformation and emerging technologies across the continent. The announcement, made by the African Union, underscores Ethiopia’s growing role in shaping Africa’s technological future, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation-driven development. “Your Excellency’s leadership in promoting digital transformation and emerging technologies has helped position artificial intelligence as a key tool for sovereignty, efficiency, and inclusive growth in Africa.”, the appointment letter said. It further noted that “Your continued advocacy for strategic autonomy and technological empowerment will be instrumental in positioning the continent as a global leader in responsible and equitable AI adoption.” The recognition comes as Ethiopia continues to register notable progress in digitization and artificial intelligence under the prime minister’s leadership. Over the past several years, the country has accelerated the expansion of digital infrastructure, rolled out e-government services, and invested in innovation ecosystems aimed at fostering a knowledge-based economy. A key milestone in Ethiopia’s AI journey was the establishment of Africa’s first Artificial Intelligence Institute in 2020. Initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the institute has since served as a cornerstone for research and development in emerging technologies. In addition, the government is finalizing preparations to launch a dedicated AI university that will strengthen research capacity, talent development, and continental collaboration in advanced technologies. Speaking at the 39th AU Summit earlier this year, Prime Minister Abiy underscored Ethiopia’s ambition to position Africa as a global leader in the age of intelligence. “In 2020, Ethiopia established Africa’s first Artificial Intelligence Institute,” he said, adding that the planned AI university will be “anchored in the Ethiopian philosophy of Medemer (synergy) through purposeful collaboration.” “This institution will unite human values with machine intelligence, local context with global relevance, and scientific rigor with applied impact,” the premier elaborated. Ethiopia’s AI drive is also anchored in the broader Digital Ethiopia 2030 strategy, which integrates key initiatives such as the national digital ID system, Fayda Digital ID, alongside expanding digital payment systems and data exchange platforms to enable efficient and secure service delivery. The country has also prioritized youth-centered digital capacity building through initiatives like the Coders Program, aimed at equipping young Ethiopians with skills required in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. At the 24th COMESA Summit, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that digitalization remains a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s homegrown economic reform agenda. He noted that leveraging Africa’s vast youth population and aligning national digital strategies with regional integration efforts are critical to unlocking sustainable and inclusive growth. Since assuming office in 2018, the premier has consistently advocated for technological transformation as a driver of economic resilience, industrialization, and continental competitiveness. The latest appointment is expected to further amplify Ethiopia’s role in advancing Africa’s digital agenda, particularly in harnessing artificial intelligence and digital health solutions to address development challenges and enhance service delivery across the continent.