Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) —The IGAD Regional Cyber Drill 2026 has concluded with participating countries calling for stronger regional cooperation, harmonized cybersecurity policies, and sustained capacity building to address the growing threat of cross-border cyberattacks. The drill brought together cybersecurity experts, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and critical infrastructure operators from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, and Uganda. Throughout the exercise, participants engaged in policy discussions, technical simulations, and practical cyber defense exercises aimed at strengthening regional preparedness and improving coordinated responses to cyber incidents, it was learned. Speaking to ENA, IGAD Data Governance expert, Khadra Ali Yusuf, said the drill successfully combined policy discussions with hands-on technical simulations, including threat intelligence sharing and malware analysis. She stated that IGAD intends to build on the success of the exercise by establishing a regional Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC) to enable member states to exchange cyber threat information, conduct malware analysis, and share lessons learned. According to Yusuf, IGAD is considering making the regional cyber drill an annual event to strengthen technical expertise and deepen cooperation among member states. "The member states have clearly indicated that they need more technical expertise and more opportunities to learn from one another. As IGAD, we are planning to organize these drills annually," the expert said. Principal Systems Administrator at the Office of the Prime Minister of Uganda, Robert Lwasa said the drill has enabled member states to exchange experiences on cybersecurity governance, institutional arrangements, and national strategies. Lwasa stressed that continued capacity building, stronger legal frameworks, political commitment, and regional collaboration are essential to protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring a secure digital environment. Representing South Sudan's National Communication Authority, Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst, Yom Malual Majok, said the practical nature of the exercise has enabled participants to simulate real-world cyber incidents affecting government institutions, financial systems, and private organizations. She noted that the training will help participants identify critical systems, improve incident response capabilities, and strengthen national cybersecurity strategies upon returning to their respective countries. She emphasized that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility requiring regional collaboration. "Cyber threats do not target one country because we are all using the same internet and operating in the same cyberspace," Majok said, adding that regional frameworks and joint policies would strengthen collective resilience. Representing Somalia's Ministry of Communications and Technology, ICT Director Hassan Hussein Mohammed described the cyber drill as highly beneficial, saying participants gained valuable technical knowledge and practical experience from Ethiopia and international experts. According to him, Somalia plans to apply the lessons learned to strengthen its national cybersecurity institutions and improve protection of critical infrastructure.

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) —Cyber threats have evolved beyond national borders, making regional cooperation essential to protecting critical infrastructure, financial systems, telecommunications, and public trust, Information Network Security Administration (INSA) Deputy Director-General Daniel Guta said at the closing of the IGAD Regional Cyber Drill 2026 in Addis Ababa today. Addressing participants of the five-day regional cybersecurity drill, the Deputy Director-General said cybersecurity is no longer solely a national responsibility but a regional and global priority due to the interconnected nature of digital systems. “Today, a cyber-threat crosses national borders. An attack on one country can quickly affect the entire region. Critical infrastructures, financial systems, telecommunications, and public trust span across our region. So our response must be closely connected,” he noted. The Deputy Director-General stressed that the conclusion of the drill marks the beginning of a new phase of regional cybersecurity cooperation rather than the end of the initiative. “This closing ceremony is not the end of the journey. Rather, it marks the beginning of the latest phase of international cybersecurity cooperation,” Daniel added.   To strengthen long-term regional cyber resilience, he outlined 6 priority areas for future cooperation. These include institutionalizing regular national and regional cyber drills, expanding future exercises to cover more complex cyber threats, implementing harmonized cybersecurity regulations at the national level, establishing mechanisms for rapid regional threat intelligence sharing, securing sustainable financing for cybersecurity initiatives, and developing measurable action plans to monitor progress. Speaking on behalf of IGAD's Executive Secretary, IGAD Head of Mission to Ethiopia, Abebaw Belachew, said the drill had significantly strengthened the region's collective cyber defense capabilities. “Five days ago, we opened this program with the fundamental truth that in our interconnected network, our security is only as strong as our collective resolve. Today, our regional cyber defence is much stronger than it was five days ago,” he added. Abebaw noted that the exercise progressed from discussions on cybersecurity policy, governance, and emerging threats to technical training in digital forensics using AI-assisted tools before culminating in live cyberattack simulations on a cyber range platform.   The Head emphasized that beyond technical skills, the trust established among cybersecurity professionals from member states would play a vital role in responding to future cyber incidents. “When the next real-world cyber incident occurs, you will not be facing it alone. You will have a regional network of colleagues you can call upon,” he stated. Abebaw also commended Ethiopia and INSA for hosting the exercise and acknowledged the support of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the World Bank, and other development partners for advancing regional cybersecurity cooperation. The five-day drill concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, and Uganda.

Addis Ababa, June 26, 2026 (ENA)__A cyber drill, which has brought together representatives of cybersecurity institutions, law enforcement agencies, and operators of critical infrastructure from East African countries, is underway at the headquarters of the Information Network Security Administration (INSA) in Addis Ababa. The IGAD Regional Cyber Drill 2026 aims to enhance cybersecurity capacity across East Africa and strengthen collective defenses against cross-border cyber threats. Opening the cyber drill that began today, IGAD Head of Mission to Ethiopia, Abebaw Belachew, said cyber threats transcend national borders and pose a shared challenge to all countries, regardless of their level of development.   “Cyber threats do not recognize international borders, nor do they differentiate between the developed and the developing. Therefore, it is a common global threat,” he said. The Head noted that cyber incidents in one country can have immediate ripple effects across the region, making collective preparedness essential. “Our digital security is only as strong and as secure as our collective resolve," Abebaw said, adding that the regional cyber drill is designed not only to test participants' technical capabilities but also to strengthen coordination, rapid decision-making, and response through live cyber-attack simulation exercises. He emphasized that building trust and professional networks among member states is just as important as strengthening technical expertise. "The networks and professional relationships you forge over the coming days will be just as critical to our regional collective defense as the technical capabilities you're building," the Head stated. Information Network Security Administration Director-General Tigist Hamid said cybersecurity has become a strategic imperative for national security, economic development, and regional stability as countries accelerate their digital transformation. She emphasized that regional cooperation remains a central principle of Ethiopia's foreign policy and its approach to cybersecurity.     The Director-General warned that increasingly sophisticated cyber-attacks targeting governments, businesses, financial institutions, and critical infrastructure require continuous vigilance, information sharing, and coordinated regional action. “We firmly believe that no country can effectively address cyber threats exclusively,” she said, reaffirming Information Network Security Administration’s commitment to working closely with governments, regional organizations, academia, the private sector, and development partners in areas, including cyber security governance, innovation, capacity building, information sharing, and joint cyber exercises. She expressed confidence that the regional cyber drill would serve as an important platform to strengthen cooperation and improve the region's ability to address existing and emerging cyber threats.   The five-day drill is expected to enhance regional coordination, strengthen institutional capacity, and reinforce cooperation among IGAD member states in responding to evolving cybersecurity challenges. The drill primarily focuses on building a common understanding of cybersecurity policies and strategic issues, strengthening technical capacity to identify threats, and enhancing rapid incident response capabilities. Representatives from Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, and Djibouti are attending the drill. The exercise also includes regional simulations aimed at improving preparedness against cyber-attacks targeting telecommunications, financial institutions, and other critical infrastructure, as well as joint responses to ransomware attacks and disinformation campaigns.

By Staff Writer June 26, 2026 (ENA) Across Africa, nations are embracing the digital revolution as a catalyst for economic growth, stronger governance, and greater global competitiveness. Among them, Ethiopia—long celebrated for its ancient civilization, rich cultural heritage, and strategic position in the Horn of Africa, is emerging as one of the continent’s most ambitious digital transformation stories. At the heart of this transition is Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, whose administration has elevated digital transformation from a sectoral technology initiative into a comprehensive national development agenda. Rather than viewing technology as an end in itself, the government has increasingly positioned digitalization as a powerful tool to improve governance, expand economic opportunity, modernize public services, and strengthen Ethiopia’s competitiveness in an increasingly digital world. For a nation of more than 130 million people, around 70 percent of whom are under the age of 30—the stakes could hardly be higher. The question is no longer whether Ethiopia should embrace the digital age, but how quickly, inclusively, and effectively it can harness technology to improve the lives of its citizens. A National Vision Beyond Technology Since assuming office in 2018, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has consistently presented digital transformation as one of the central pillars of Ethiopia’s long-term economic modernization. His administration first introduced Digital Ethiopia 2025, a national roadmap designed to establish the foundations of a modern digital economy. Building on the progress achieved under that strategy, Ethiopia has now embarked on implementing Digital Ethiopia 2030, a more ambitious blueprint intended to accelerate digital innovation while ensuring that the benefits of technological progress reach every corner of the country. The transition represents a decisive new chapter in Ethiopia’s digital journey, shifting the focus from laying digital foundations to building an inclusive, resilient, and innovation-driven economy. Announcing the launch of the strategy in late 2025, Prime Minister Abiy said Digital Ethiopia 2025 had achieved its objectives “to an almost full extent,” creating the momentum for an even broader national vision. Rather than concentrating solely on expanding internet access, Digital Ethiopia 2030 seeks to build a people-centered digital society founded on accessibility, equal opportunity, institutional trust, digital sovereignty, and efficient technology-enabled public services. Transforming Government Through Technology One of the defining features of Ethiopia’s digital transformation has been the government’s determination to modernize public administration through technology. Digital Ethiopia 2030 envisions a government where citizens can increasingly access public services online, institutions communicate seamlessly, and administrative processes become faster, more transparent, and more accountable. A major milestone in this transformation is the Unified MESOB Application, described as Africa’s first integrated digital government platform that brings services from multiple public institutions together through a single digital interface. By consolidating government services onto one platform, the application is expected to simplify citizens’ interactions with public institutions, reduce bureaucracy, strengthen institutional coordination, and significantly improve service delivery. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed officially inaugurated the platform during the Digital for Excellence Summit, describing it as a landmark achievement in Ethiopia’s digital transformation journey and a practical demonstration of technology-driven governance. Equally important is the continued expansion of Ethiopia’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), including the nationwide rollout of the Fayda Digital ID, interoperable digital payment systems, sovereign government cloud infrastructure, and integrated online public services. Collectively, these initiatives seek to replace fragmented administrative systems with connected digital platforms capable of supporting a modern, responsive, and citizen-focused state. Opening Ethiopia’s Digital Economy Digital transformation has also become an essential pillar of Ethiopia’s broader economic reform agenda. One of the administration’s landmark reforms was the liberalization of the telecommunications sector, ending decades of monopoly and introducing competition that has stimulated investment, expanded mobile broadband coverage, and improved internet accessibility. Alongside these reforms, the government has actively promoted digital financial services, electronic payments, fintech innovation, startup development, and entrepreneurship as key drivers of future economic growth. Looking ahead, Digital Ethiopia 2030 aims to position Ethiopia as one of Africa’s preferred destinations for Digital Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Through implementation of the Startup Proclamation and the Digital Ethiopia Investment Roadmap, policymakers hope to attract international technology companies, strengthen local innovation ecosystems, and create new employment opportunities for millions of young Ethiopians. The ambition extends well beyond the ICT sector itself. Agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, education, logistics, financial services, and public administration are all expected to benefit from deeper digital integration and improved productivity. Building the Foundations First Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has repeatedly emphasized that technology alone cannot transform a nation. Digital progress, he argues, must rest upon strong and reliable foundations. Affordable electricity, nationwide broadband connectivity, cybersecurity, digital literacy, and resilient digital infrastructure have therefore become central pillars of Ethiopia’s long-term strategy. Recognizing that millions of Ethiopians still live in rural communities with limited digital access, the government has placed increasing emphasis on extending infrastructure beyond major urban centers. The objective is clear: ensuring that digital opportunities become available not only in Addis Ababa but across every region of the country. This people-centered approach reflects a broader understanding that meaningful digital inclusion requires more than smartphones and applications—it requires reliable infrastructure that enables every citizen to participate in the digital economy. A Young Nation with Global Potential Ethiopia’s demographic profile represents one of its greatest strategic assets. With one of the world’s youngest populations, the country possesses an enormous reservoir of talent capable of driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital productivity for decades to come. Digital Ethiopia 2030 seeks to unlock this demographic dividend by expanding digital skills, strengthening innovation ecosystems, supporting startups, and creating an environment where technology becomes a major engine of employment, competitiveness, and economic diversification. The strategy also aims to increase the digital economy’s contribution to the national economy while addressing persistent challenges such as digital literacy, internet penetration, and unequal access to technology. Challenges That Still Lie Ahead Despite remarkable progress over recent years, Ethiopia’s digital transformation remains an evolving national project rather than a finished achievement. Infrastructure gaps, uneven connectivity, cybersecurity risks, affordability of digital services, institutional capacity, and disparities between urban and rural communities continue to present significant challenges. Successfully implementing Digital Ethiopia 2030 will require sustained public investment, greater private-sector participation, policy consistency, stronger institutions, and continuous investment in digital skills. Ultimately, technology alone cannot deliver transformation without resilient infrastructure, capable institutions, and widespread public participation. Leading Ethiopia into the Digital Era What distinguishes Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s approach is his effort to place digital transformation at the heart of Ethiopia’s national development strategy rather than treating it as a standalone technology policy. Through telecommunications reform, expanded Digital Public Infrastructure, digital identity systems, electronic government services, and successive national digital strategies, his administration has sought to redefine how the Ethiopian state functions and how its economy competes in an increasingly digital world. Digital Ethiopia 2030 represents the next chapter of that national ambition. If successfully implemented, the strategy has the potential to position Ethiopia not only as one of Africa’s largest digital economies but also as a model for how technology can foster inclusive growth, strengthen governance, empower young people, and improve everyday life. For Ethiopia, digital transformation is no longer simply about adopting new technologies. It is about building a future where innovation expands opportunity, institutions become more responsive, businesses become more competitive, and every citizen has a greater chance to participate in the country’s economic and social progress. History has long remembered Ethiopia for its ancient civilization and enduring cultural legacy. Its next defining chapter, however, may well be written through digital innovation, powered by modern infrastructure and driven by one of the world’s youngest populations. As nations compete in the digital age, Ethiopia is seeking not merely to keep pace, but to help shape Africa’s digital future.

Addis Ababa, June 25, 2026 (ENA)__Ethiopia has made significant strides toward building a secure and resilient digital ecosystem, Information Network Security Administration (INSA) Director-General, Tigist Hamid, said. Addressing an international conference on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence in Addis Ababa Thursday, the Director-General noted that Ethiopia's national cybersecurity policy was comprehensively revised in 2024 to reflect emerging technological realities, evolving cyber threats, and international best practices.   Accordingly, the country has established a legal and institutional framework aimed at strengthening trust and confidence in the digital environment. Tigist cited several laws and proclamations designed to protect citizens and national interests, including measures related to critical information infrastructure, infrastructure protection, personal data protection, electronic transactions, electronic signatures, telecom fraud, and crime. Ethiopia has continued to expand its cybersecurity capabilities through structured defense mechanisms, including security operations centers, advanced threat intelligence capabilities, cyber incident response systems, and continuous monitoring frameworks, according to the Director-General. She linked the push for digital security to Ethiopia’s broader development agenda, saying a secure digital ecosystem is essential to national sovereignty, economic resilience, and sustainable development. Furthermore, Tigist emphasized on the needs for investments in cybersecurity education, advanced technical training, research and innovation, and youth talent development, calling for stronger cooperation with governments, international organizations, academia, industry leaders, and development partners.   For her part, UNECA Deputy Executive Secretary Mama Keita said cybersecurity should not be viewed only as a technical function within ICT departments, but as an indispensable pillar for socioeconomic resilience since digital payments, online services, and platforms depend on trust, including the reliability of systems and protection of data. She noted that artificial intelligence is these days reshaping institutions by generating knowledge, creating content, supporting decision-making, and altering how sectors operate. The Deputy Executive Secretary warned that while AI can strengthen cybersecurity through faster threat detection and improved fraud prevention, cyber criminals can also use AI to automate attacks, exploit vulnerabilities at scale, and undermine trust.   Keita stressed that the solutions for this must be collaborative, involving governments, the private sector, academia, and international organizations. She noted that Africa must take active role in shaping digital futures rather than only adopting developments made elsewhere.

The vision of making Ethiopia a model African country for prosperity is becoming a reality in all spheres, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. The premier has opened today a four-day Digital for Excellence exhibition at the Science Museum and inaugurated the Unified MESOB Application, Africa's first unified digital service application that brings 27 services from across institutions to a single platform. During the occasion, PM Abiy said the government has continued its activities to modernize institutional services. The reforms carried out in this regard, including the successful endeavors to excel government services, are a testament to the nation’s technology-led and purpose-driven investment.   The PM, who lauded the remarkable modernization of key civil service government institutions, noted that the one-stop MESOB service is a critical economic infrastructure. This success manifests that Ethiopia’s dreams are not just mere wishes, but realities that ''we can build with our own hands and capabilities'', he further stated. Noting that technology has been playing a major role in modernizing services and productivity of Ethiopia's agriculture, industry, mining, tourism and banking industries, PM Abiy stressed the need for strengthening the country's success by sharing experience and expertise with African brothers and sisters and moving forward with determination to achieve more results. He also commended the rapid transformation of government services from MESOB one-stop to a mobile application. There is no other place in Africa where all services are provided in an integrated system like MESOB, the PM noted, adding that the one-stop service has now reached 70 centers within a year. He revealed that the countries from which Ethiopia has shared experiences have not built 70 centers even in ten years. The Ethiopian MESOB one-stop service accessibility is also expanding at a remarkable pace, the premier said, emphasizing that the integrated digital service application is the first integrated service application in Africa.   PM Abiy said the transformation also allows citizens to access the service from anywhere and at any time through their mobile phones, underscoring that the MESOB one-stop service has moved government services from one center to mobile. This is a successful endeavor that only a few countries have achieved, he noted. The premier further pointed out that the Artificial Intelligence (AI) University will make Ethiopia a model for Africa in many respects. Building a country that will not inherit poverty to its children and making Ethiopia an African symbol of prosperity is being realized in all spheres, he concluded.

Addis Ababa, June 20, 2026 (ENA)__ Ethiopia’s technological aspiration can be achieved through youth science and technology researchers’ passion, dedication, and creativity, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said today. Speaking during the graduation ceremony of 1,387 graduate and post-graduate students from Adama Science and Technology University, the DPM stressed that the graduates should lead the country's digital transformation and development journey. Noting the evolution of education from traditional to online learning and artificial intelligence, he said the present generation is a product of this era of rapid change. DPM Temesgen stressed the need for producing patriotic young professionals who can generate knowledge, develop technology and build industry to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and the goals set by Ethiopia.   The government is working diligently to build a competent and productive workforce, designing enabling educational policy, he added. Institutions such as the Adama Science and Technology University play a crucial role in building the generation with knowledge, skills and ethics, the deputy premier stated. The past generation had made what they could; and the fate of the future Ethiopia rests upon your shoulders, DPM Temesgen underscored. Today's graduates can significantly contribute to the effort to make Ethiopia great and prosperous through dedicated research and innovation, according to the deputy premier. Ethiopia needs technology innovators, visionary researchers, and entrepreneurs who can solve the problems of the country and the world, especially at this time when the Digital Ethiopia 2030 strategy is being implemented, he emphasized.   DPM Temesgen said the government motivates science and technology professionals and graduates by providing job opportunities and encouraging entrepreneurs and researchers through policy and legal framework. Expansion of digital ID, digital one-stop service center (MESOB), digital financial systems, and artificial intelligence showcase the government’s capacity and the attention given to the sector, he concluded.

Addis Ababa, June 20, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has inaugurated today the Unified MESOB Application, Africa's first unified digital service application that brings services from across institutions onto a single platform. The PM inaugurated the application, which he described as a landmark achievement in Ethiopia's digital transformation journey, during the Digital for Excellence Summit. In a social media statement, Prime Minister Abiy said the inauguration of the Unified MESOB Application is a source of immense national pride and a testament to what deliberate, focused investment in technology can deliver. According to him, the MESOB one-stop service is a critical economic infrastructure that saves citizens' time, closes corruption gaps, and strengthens institutional integrity on the government side. He emphasized that the platform stands as a clear demonstration that Ethiopia's ambitions are not wishes, but realities built through the country's own efforts and capabilities. The PM called for consolidating the achievement and share the experience with other African countries to move forward with greater determination to deliver further innovations and progress.

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.