Addis Ababa October 20/2024 (ENA)-Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola said more than 31,000 citizens have so far successfully completed a coding training program carried out as part of the “Five Million Ethiopian Coders” training initiative and were certified. Over 246,000 Ethiopians have now been attending the training program across the country. He stated this during the 100-day performance review of the 2017 fiscal year, attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Following the comprehensive macroeconomic reform implemented in Ethiopia, major economic indicators performed better and attracted investment in the innovation and technology sector, it was indicated. Innovation and Technology Minister, Belete Mola said since the reform was fully implemented, the work of opening up the market has been strengthened and he mentioned that revival is being seen in all economic sectors. In view of this, the number of foreign and domestic investors engaged in information and technology, especially in the digitalization sector, has increased significantly, he noted. The full implementation of the reform in the country has created a growing and stimulated demand, he explained. Attention has been given to the “Five Million Ethiopian Coders” training Initiative, which was launched to increase the digital technology knowledge of Ethiopians and to do problem solving work, he stressed. Accordingly, more than 246,000 citizens were registered and are being attending the training, and 31,000 of them have been certified. Young people who are being trained as coders and startups who are engaged in the technology sector and have creative potential will be supported in a special way, he reassured. A direction has also been set to focus on adapting and developing technologies, gradually reducing imported technologies, he added. The “Five Million Coders” program launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is being implemented in partnership with United Arab Emirates (UAE) to boost digital technology capability among the youth in Ethiopia. The project is aimed at improving the technological knowledge of the youth to enable them to work in various countries too. The project envisages training to five million youth on web programing, developing android, data science, AI and to enable them acquire skills on basic digital technologies over the coming three years.    

Addis Ababa, October 18/2024 (ENA) Information Network Security Administration (INSA) Deputy Director-General Daniel Guta stressed that INSA is working hard focusing on cyber security to realize Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy and ensure Ethiopia's successful transition to a digital economy. Daniel, a panelist at the GITEX 2024 Expo in Dubai, under a tittle "Ethiopia 2025 Strategy and Cyber ​​Security", stated Ethiopia's efforts to bolster cyber security as part of its 2025 digital strategy. Daniel identified national digital identity, electronic payment systems, and cyber security as critical components for the success of Ethiopia's 2025 digital transformation. In this regard, Daniel pointed out that many works have been done to ensure the cyber security of the country. INSA is focusing on five key issues to achieve its mission of ensuring Ethiopia's cyber security, he noted. These are ensuring ownership of knowledge and technology, institutional excellence, construction and protection of key infrastructures, national and international partnership and cooperation, and policy and legal framework preparation. At the forum, Daniel said the Ethiopian capital market and other similar institutions are playing an important role in facilitating Ethiopia's digital economy. INSA is fulfilling its role to ensure the safe transition of Ethiopia's digital economy and to achieve the goals of the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy, he added. INSA is actively working to safeguard Ethiopia's digital economy and achieve the objectives of the 2025 digital strategy.

Addis Ababa October 15/2024 (ENA) The Executive Vice President at Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), Trixie Lohmirmand said technology isn't luxury but necessary for Africa so as to survive in competitive world. The biggest tech and AI show on planet hosted by Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), GITEXT Global, has opened yesterday and will run by 18 October in Dubai. The Executive Vice President at Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), Events Management and CEO Kaoun International Trixie Lohmirmand made the remark at Nigeria's stage held at the ongoing GITEX in Dubai, the world's largest event for global startups and investors On the occasion, she announced that the coming edition of GITEX will take place in Legos, Nigeria in September 2025. It is great opportunity for Africa in general and Nigeria in particular to host this biggest international tech, startup and artificial intelligence event, GITEX, she elaborated. She underscored the need for a collaborative approach between African nations and global stakeholders to navigate the complexities of the African market. LohMirmand emphasized the unique opportunity presented by the convergence of creativity and technology in Africa. She highlighted the inspiring youth population, which constitutes over 60 percent of the continent, as a key driver of innovation. The intersection of creativity and technology is supreme, LohMirmand stated, underscoring the potential for groundbreaking advancements in the African tech landscape. Technology is not an entitlement; it is essential in Africa, LohMirmand asserted, emphasizing the critical role technology plays in driving progress and development across the continent. She acknowledged the trepidation surrounding the African market but encouraged stakeholders to view the challenges as opportunities for growth and high rewards. LohMirmand's call to action resonates with the increasing recognition of Africa's strategic importance in the global digital economy, particularly in the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence. she pointed out that GITEX wants to take all Tech exhibitors and tech enthusiasts across the globe, Stating that Nigeria is set to host the 2025 event. LohMirmand also acknowledged the collective initiative and road maps set by Nigerian government and urged the private sector to unlock talent and potentials in tech ecosystem.    

Addis Ababa October 14/2024( ENA) Director General of Ethiopia’s Information Network Security Administration (INSA), Tigist Hamid, who participated at a panel discussion held as part of GITEX GLOBAL in Dubai, emphasized the need for global cooperation to ensuring cyber security. Tigist revealed that Ethiopia has built competent institutions to prevent cyber-attacks on infrastructure and key institutions. She said that the issue of cyber-attack is a concern of the whole world and requires the cooperation of all countries in the field of cyber security. According to the director general, Ethiopia is registering a rapid and multifaceted economic growth including in digital transformation. She pointed out that the country has been experiencing various cyber-attack attempts as in the rest of the world. However, she added that the Information Network Security Administration is working in cooperation with relevant stakeholders to prevent these attacks. Noting that Ethiopia has enacted key legal frameworks regarding digital applications and cyber security, the Director General stated that INSA has been able to foil cyber-attacks attempted at different occasions. Education and training are being focused on to produce a qualified workforce in cyber security, she pointed out citing the 5 million Ethiopian coders training program being implemented in cooperation with the United Arab Emirates. Tigist indicated that an agreement has also been reached with the Addis Ababa University to produce second and third degree graduates in the field. Ethiopia is working on the key issues of cyber security and artificial intelligence; she revealed emphasizing the need for global cooperation to ensuring cyber security.  

Addis Ababa October 13/2024 (ENA)- Expand North Star, the world's largest event for global startups and investors, kicked off today in Dubai. The North Star tech event, which will be held for the coming three days, brought together over 2,000 startups and more than 70,000 participants drawn from over 120 countries including Ethiopia.   Organized by Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, the event has also attracted the world’s most sought-after founders, investors, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators to explore business deals, attract investments, expand their networks, and share valuable knowledge. Lead Executive Officer for Startups Development at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Innovation and Technology, Selamyihun Adefris, who is attending the event in Dubai, told ENA that six startups that were selected from a competition held among 150, are participating in this extraordinary global event. Expand North Star is believed to be the ultimate hub for driving business impact, accelerating the growth of the world’s most promising startups, and bringing together the entire startup ecosystem. This annual event is also the go-to platform for startups, investors, accelerators, and tech enthusiasts looking to secure funding, explore investment opportunities, and stay ahead of industry trends.

Addis Ababa October 11/2024 ( ENA) Governor of the Ethiopian National Bank, Mamo Mihretu said special focus on cybersecurity is paramount in safeguarding the sovereignty and independence of the digital systems. Cyber Security Month, themed "Security of Key Infrastructure for Digital Sovereignty," kicked off today in Addis Ababa at the Science Museum, marking the beginning of a month-long campaign. The celebration of this annual event in Ethiopia has commenced since 2019 and is celebrating globally since 2000, is now in its 21st year. Throughout the month, various awareness programs will be conducted to educate the public about cybersecurity. On the occasion, Governor of the Ethiopian National Bank, Mamo Mihretu highlighted the critical importance of prioritizing cybersecurity to protect digital infrastructure from threats and ensure national security. Mamo highlighted the need to invest in cybersecurity to maintain the country’s digital independence and sovereignty. He mentioned that cybersecurity is vital to ensuring national sovereignty, urging for greater attention to cybersecurity to protect digital resources and safeguard citizen’s safety. The Governor also stressed the importance of nurturing the technological talent of young people and encouraging the private sector to contribute to cybersecurity development. Director General of Information Network Security Administration (INSA), Tigist Hamid for her part noted that the Digital Ethiopia strategy places a strong emphasis on cybersecurity protection. Tigist emphasized the significance of Cyber Security Month in raising public awareness and preventing cyberattacks. He recalled a successful effort to thwart cyberattacks, saving billions of Birr. The opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Innovation and Technology, Belete Molla, President of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, Abe Sano, CEO of Ethio Telecom, Frehiwot Tamru, other government officials, lawmakers, and invited gue

Addis Ababa October 10/2024 (ENA) -Google’s Head for Pan-African Institutions, Pren-Tsilya Boa-Guehe hailed Ethiopia’s effort in building up the innovation ecosystem, which aims at empowering young citizens to be more innovative and creative. Pren-Tsilya Boa-Guehe, Google’s Head for Pan-African Institutions, commended Ethiopia’s commitment to establishing an innovation ecosystem designed to empower its young citizens to become more innovative and creative. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Boa-Guehe expressed her enthusiasm for collaborating with Ethiopia to promote innovation, which she emphasized, is vital for driving sustainable development. She stated that Google is prepared to establish a regulatory and governance framework that will support young people in their innovative pursuits, in partnership with Ethiopia and other African nations. Highlighting the necessity of robust education systems, effective policies, and AI regulations to ensure that young people can thrive, she pointed out that Google is eager to work alongside government partners, particularly in Ethiopia and across the African continent. "The need to develop a type of pipeline of talent that can really show us the potential of our economies across the continent. Therefore, investing in education, creating regulatory frameworks that are strong and encourage responsible deployment of AI and really building regulations that support the whole ecosystem," she underscored. Boa-Guehe strongly advocated for the diversification of the talent pool. During her attendance at Ethiopia's robotics competition on October 4, 2024, in Addis Ababa, she remarked, "I witnessed phenomenal innovative projects focused on agriculture and agricultural precision." “We are striving to enhance African representation in global competitions. We want African youth to participate and showcase innovations,” she added. The objective of this competition is to cultivate the African talent pipeline, ensuring that "we have more innovation that comes from Africa that is exported globally and can make a difference.” This competition is being organized in partnership with the UN Economic Commission for Africa, the World Robotics Olympiad, and several other collaborators, she noted. Google has dedicated years to this initiative, and Boa-Guehe expressed her excitement to see young individuals at this stage contemplating innovations that align with those being pursued by PhD researchers, scientists, and engineers. "They are creating an amazing foundation for an African talent pipeline and for Ethiopia, specifically, a country with 120 million people, it's really critical that we use the young people in this country to help drive some of Africa's innovations. In her comments on Ethiopia’s 5 Million Coders initiative launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on July 23, 2024, she remarked that coders form the backbone of a digital ecosystem. She described Ethiopia’s initiative as truly commendable and expressed hope for its successful implementation, noting that execution will be a critical component.  

Addis Ababa October 8/2024 (ENA)The 3rd Pan-African Artificial Intelligence (AI) Conference kicked off at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa today under the theme “Empowering Africa with Artificial Intelligence." Senior government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh are attending the two-day conference, organized by the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute. Researchers, young technologists and stakeholders from different countries have also been participating at the conference. Opening the conference, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said that we are at the right time to move Africa towards a better development journey through artificial intelligence. He mentioned that Ethiopia has started using artificial intelligence for health, agriculture and other development sectors. Temesgen said that the sector plays an important role in technological infrastructure and youth entrepreneurship to ensure economic transition. The Deputy PM highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence in Africa’s pursuit to create a better continent by integrating their indigenous knowledge with the sector. In order to compete and benefit from the world, it is necessary to make full use of the continental capabilities, Temesgen said stressing the importance of enhancing cross-border cooperation. The Director General of Artificial Intelligence, Worku Gachena said for his part artificial intelligence is a crucial instrument to making Africa's development a reality. In this regard, he said Ethiopia has established an independent institution as the country gives high priority to the development of the sector, noting the efforts being carried out to make the institution influential across the continent. A number of scientific research works on artificial intelligence will be presented and discussed at the two-day conference.  

Addis Ababa October 4/2024 (ENA)The Ethiopian robotics competition winner, which takes part at the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) in 2024 in Türkiye, was announced today. A total of 120 young Ethiopians under 37 projects demonstrated their creative works at the ECA here in Addis Ababa. From among these, Kotebe STEMpower Center emerged winner of the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) Young Ethiopians National Robotics Competition 2024. Initially, over 600 young Ethiopians took training in robotics creativity and design at STEMpower training centers in various universities, STEMpower Country Representative Simenew Keskes said. The country representative also said the robotics projects are designed to solve problems in various sectors, including health, agriculture, and environmental protection, among others.   Innovation and Technology State Minister Shurun Alemayehu said on his part that the WRO Ethiopia National Robotics Competition is more than just a competition; it is a platform that inspires creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills among the youth. "By engaging in robotics, young people develop a deep understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), which are essential for driving economic growth and addressing the challenges of our time." According to him, the theme of this year's competition, "Earth Allies," is particularly timely "as we face the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation and it is imperative that we harness the power of technology to create sustainable solutions." The robotic creations showcased at this competition have demonstrate the ingenuity and creativity of our young people in addressing these critical issues, the state minister noted.   Expressed the ministry’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship in Ethiopia, Shurun pointed out that the country is investing in research and development, promoting digital literacy, and supporting the growth of technology startups. "We believe that innovation is the key to unlocking our nation's full potential,” he underscored Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, Claver Gatete said the solutions designed by the young Ethiopians are not simply for the competition, rather "they are foundations that we aspire to align with Agenda 2063 of the African Union." World Robot Olympiad (WRO) is more than education exercise; robotics is platform to develop rewarded solutions in the most challenges of our time, he added. “You our young people are not only creating a robot but you are building the future one step at a time.”  

Addis Ababa, September 30/2024 (ENA) The African Space Leadership Institute (ASLI), in collaboration with the Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute (ESSGI) and the Nigerian embassy, launched a training course in Addis Ababa today aimed at maximizing international space cooperation in Addis Ababa today. Established on October 4, 2022, ASLI is Africa’s first space-focused think tank, aimed at addressing gaps in space policy, strategy, and law across the continent. The institute also aims to support Africa's leadership in global space governance, aligned with the African Union's Agenda 2063, which envisions a self-sustaining and globally competitive Africa. The Institute launched today a course under the title “Maximizing International Space Cooperation.” Speaking at the occasion, ASLI Co-founder, Etim Offiong said the course is designed to equip professionals, policymakers, and leaders with essential skills for engaging in space cooperation, diplomacy, and governance. He added that the key topics will cover include space diplomacy and policy, space law and governance, as well as Africa's role in global space forums. Institutions like the Ethiopian Space Science Society and the ESSGI, Addis Ababa have emerged as a key hub for space research and diplomacy in Africa, he stated. Ethiopia's strategic position as the host country underscores its leadership in African space endeavors and its growing influence in the field of space science, he pointed out, reaffirming ASLI's commitment to positioning Africa as a key player in international space forums by offering knowledge-building opportunities such as the “maximizing international space cooperation” course. Space Science and Geospatial Institute Director General, Abdulrazak Oumer said the launch of the course represents a significant milestone in enhancing Africa’s space capabilities and fostering a network of skilled professionals to lead the continent’s space initiatives.   It would enable Africa to get benefit from the global space economy which is projected to reach 1.8 trillion US Dollar by 2030, he underscored. Innovation and Technology State Minister, Yeshurun Alemeayehu on his part reiterated Ethiopia’s central position within the African Union and other key international organizations makes it a fitting choice for fostering continental cooperation in space activities.   He emphasized the need to unleash Africa's potential in space economy for sustainable development of the continent. The state minister also pointed out that Ethiopia is committed to support such types of initiatives and cooperations to foster national and continental socioeconomic and scientific advancements.      

Addis Ababa, September 24/2024 (ENA)-Ethio Telecom announced today the launch of 'Copper Switch Off' Initiative designed to modernize its services. Ethio Telecom CEO, Frehiwot Tamru told the media that the initiative is intended to modernize wired broadband internet and data-based voice services by replacing the exiting copper lines with fiber optics. The initiative is a crucial move to address the long-standing complaints of customers as it replaces the age old copper lines with fiber optics network which ensures efficient services, the CEO said. Frehiwot stated that the initiative is part of the national vision to realizing Digital Ethiopia. The transition from copper lines to fiber optics will be carried out for the coming years across the country, the CEO said, noting that copper lines of 100,000 customers will be changed to fiber optics during the current Ethiopian fiscal year.  

Addis Ababa, September 21/2024 (ENA) Ethiopia has taken over the chairmanship of the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA) for a one-year term. AFRA, established in 1990, is an intergovernmental agreement that aims to promote the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology in Africa. Through AFRA, African countries collaborate on research, development, and training initiatives related to nuclear energy, agriculture, health, and industry. Ethiopia, having successfully hosted the 35th AFRA-Technical Working Group Meeting in Addis Ababa in June 2024, was elected for a one-year term, beginning in September 2024. This appointment was announced during the 68th International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Annual Conference, held in Vienna, Austria, from September 16 to 19, 2024. Ethiopian Minister of Innovation and Technology, Bele Mola was selected by AFRA member states to lead the organization on behalf of Ethiopia. The handover ceremony took place in the presence of the IAEA Director General, Rafael Mariano Grossi, who confirmed the agency's strong support for AFRA. Minister Bele expressed Ethiopia's commitment to leveraging nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes like healthcare, agriculture, mining, environmental protection, energy, industry, and other sectors. He emphasized the potential of this technology to contribute significantly to Africa's development. The Ethiopian delegation actively participated in the IAEA Annual Conference and related side events. The Minister highlighted Ethiopia's past collaboration with the IAEA in technical cooperation and sought to expand these efforts in the future. Belete also emphasized the importance of peaceful nuclear technology for Ethiopia's development in areas like health, taxation, manufacturing, and energy. The IAEA's recent announcement of the "Rays of Hope" initiative, focusing on healthcare, aligns with Ethiopia's goals. The agency plans to strengthen its support for member states by establishing cancer treatment centers in health institutions. Additionally, the newly launched "Atoms4Food" initiative aims to address food security challenges by promoting the use of nuclear science and technology in agriculture. Ethiopia, with its significant agricultural efforts, is well-positioned to benefit from these initiatives. The Minister also held a bilateral meeting with IAEA Director General Grossi to discuss areas of cooperation and explore opportunities for further collaboration.  

Addis Ababa September 11/2024 (ENA) Ethiopia’s talented youth are participating at the 47th World Skills Competition, which officially inaugurated on Tuesday by French President Emmanuel Macron in Lyon. The 47th World Skills Competition, which featured performances from Ethiopia's gifted kids, was formally opened in Lyon on Tuesday by French President Emmanuel Macron.   The Competition, that brought 1,400 competitors together from 69 countries and regions, is expected to draw 250,000 participants, including those attending the competition, ceremonies, and city-wide activities. This event promotes the excellence of savoir-faire in over 60 skills, reflecting their diversity and importance in the global economy. Running through Sept 15, this event, often referred to as the "Olympics of Skills", is the world's largest vocational education and skills competition, showcasing excellence across a wide range of trades. According to Minister of Labor and Skills, Muferihat Kamil, Ethiopian youth are participating at this global event by competing in ICT and Networking, CNC Machine, and Furniture Making skills. President of WorldSkills Lyon 2024, Max Roche highlighted the four core values of WorldSkills —excellence, generosity, openness, and unity. He said: "We believe that everything is possible with skills. This competition is all about sharing — sharing skills, knowledge, happiness, and success. We want to welcome everyone, no matter where they come from." Ethiopia officially joined World Skills International as a full member in last August which provides several economic and social significances for the country and its youth in terms of skill transfer, experience exchange, industry linkages among others.

Addis Ababa September 9/2024 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underscored that Summer Camp trainees of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute are a testament to the nation’s efforts in addressing the challenges of the country and advancing the Digital Ethiopia strategy. The Premier attended the 2024 graduation ceremony of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute summer camp training program held today. “I am quite pleased to have attended the graduation ceremony for the 2024 Summer Camp trainees of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute,” he wrote on social media page. Premier has commended the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute for its dedication to empowering the youth to become the scientists of tomorrow by developing their technological potential. “You are a testament to our efforts in addressing the challenges of our country and advancing the Digital Ethiopia strategy. I trust that the 200 visionary young minds here today will turn this beginning into remarkable achievements," Abiy added.    

Addis Ababa September 9/2024 (ENA)Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the crucial role of Ethiopia's visionary, industrious and creative young population in driving rapid transformation and development in the country. The Premier made the remark today during his address at the 2024 graduation ceremony of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute summer camp training program. On the occasion Abiy highlighted the need for visionary, creative, and industrious youth to spearhead the country's progress. The Prime Minister emphasized that investing in artificial intelligence today is a strategic move that will yield significant benefits in the future. The Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute successfully concluded its 2024 summer camp with a graduation ceremony. The Premier addressed the graduating students, underscoring the strategic importance of artificial intelligence for Ethiopia's future development. “The institute's work is laying the groundwork for significant technological advancements in the years to come,” he added. Abiy also highlighted the pivotal role of the institute's training programs for first and second-level students in nurturing a new generation of creative and innovative Ethiopians. He reassured the students that the government is fully committed to supporting technological innovation and creating a conducive environment for their duty, emphasizing the government's Digital Ethiopia Strategy that prioritizes technology as a cornerstone of development, and reflecting the recognition of its vital role in modernizing various sectors of the economy. The Prime Minister also highlighted the recent official launch of the Information Network Security Administration's digital signature, a significant achievement driven by the country's young talent and emphasized its substantial benefits for technology innovators.   “To combat identity fraud and establish standardized procedures, the government has been actively working to implement a digital identity system for Ethiopian citizens,” noting that approximately 10 million people have already been registered, emphasizing the crucial role of digital identity for young people and teenagers as a foundational infrastructure for the future. The Prime Minister recalled that the training of 5 million Ethiopian coders will also foster a highly competitive and creative environment by producing well-qualified graduates with strong technological expertise. “The government's digital projects will create conducive environment for innovative individuals to thrive,” he added. Drawing inspiration from other countries that have achieved technological advancements through their focus on the youth, the Prime Minister encouraged Ethiopian youth to embrace hard work and innovation. “Ethiopia's success in technology depends on its young people's ability to contribute significantly to the field,” he emphasized. The Primer also urged the students to apply their acquired knowledge creatively and diligently in their future endeavors. He commended the parents of these promising students for their role in nurturing their children's potential.   Director General of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, Engineer Warku Gachena, on his behalf highlighted the participation of 200 students from various schools across the country in the two-month training program. He praised the success of this year's summer camp, where the trainees showcased their technological diversity, creativity, and skills both individually and as a team. The students were encouraged to remain dedicated and view challenges as opportunities for growth in their ongoing learning journey.      

Addis Ababa,August 31/2024(ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said that Digital Information Security is crucial not only for Ethiopia's modernization but also in safeguarding the sovereignty of the country. The premier made the remarks at the officially launching ceremony of the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) System today. This Public Key Infrastructure with the Information Network Security Administration will facilitate reliable and secure digital data exchange,” it was learned. Moreover, the infrastructure comprises hardware, software, professionals, and a legal framework. By encrypting data using mathematical formulas and decrypting it with secret keys, PKI enables digital signatures and data confidentiality verification, it was indicated. PKI encrypts data using mathematical formulas, requiring a secret key known only to the sender and receiver for decryption. It also enables digital signatures and data confidentiality verification through digital certificates. Speaking at the launching ceremony, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized PKI as a vital component of information network security management. The launch of PKI services demonstrates the institution's capacity and growth, reflecting Ethiopia's rapidly evolving digital landscape. He highlighted the need for a robust virtual security system to support digital development and the newly launched PKI system addresses this requirement. “Ethiopians have made a rich history in the field of military in order to protect the country's sovereignty, which made Ethiopia a country that is not easily conquered,” he underscored. According to the Prime Minister, the cyber-attacks now threaten national sovereignty, he said, adding that the recently launched Public Key Infrastructure is essential for protecting and strengthening Ethiopia's sovereignty. He added that the ongoing implementation of 5 million Ethiopian coders and a national digital identity will further propel Ethiopia's digital journey.  

Addis Ababa,August 31/2024(ENA)- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed officially launched Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) with the Information Network Security Administration. The premier stated on his social media page that securing virtual data is essential for protecting national sovereignty.   “Today, we officially launched Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) with the Information Network Security Administration. This will facilitate reliable and secure digital data exchange,” Abiy stated.  

Addis Ababa, August 29/2024 (ENA) The Ethiopian Statistics Service has announced that it is providing capacity-building training to over 43,000 professionals at universities in preparation for the second round of the National Agricultural Sample Census. The Ethiopian Statistics Service is making extensive preparations for the second round of the National Agricultural Census, scheduled to take place in 2024-2025, according to Abnet Awaz, the Institutional Transformation Executive Officer at the Ethiopian Statistics Service. In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Abnet emphasized the significance of this nationwide agricultural census, stating that it will provide crucial input for the government's development initiatives and policy implementations.   He also highlighted the multifaceted benefits this census will bring to the country as a whole. The Service has already made significant progress in its preparations. They have conducted training for trainers, recruited supervisors, and, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labor and Skills, have enlisted between 43,000 to 45,000 data collectors. Currently, capacity-building training for data collectors is being provided at universities across the country, including Gambella University. This training program commenced on August 23, 2023, and is a critical component of the census preparation. The manager of the Gambella branch of the Statistics Service, Dubale Kebede, provided additional insights into the scope of the national agricultural census. He explained that the year-long census would encompass all aspects of agricultural development work in the country.   The census will cover a wide range of agricultural data, including farmland, uncultivated land suitable for farming, livestock (including cattle, sheep, and goats), and a comprehensive count of domestic animals. Dubale also noted that the training for data collectors and supervisors, which began on August 23, 2023, is scheduled to continue until September 15, 2024, underscoring the thorough and meticulous approach being taken to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of this vital national census.  

Addis Ababa, August 28/2024 (ENA) Azerbaijan has expressed its desire to explore Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based collaborations with Ethiopia. A high-level delegation of Azerbaijan led by Mahammadali Khudaverdiyev, Director General for International Affairs under the Azerbaijani President, paid a visit to the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute. Director-General of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, Worku Gachena warmly welcomed the delegation and provided an overview of the institute’s extensive operations and ongoing projects. During the visit, Mahammadali Khudaverdiyev shared insights into innovative solutions like ASAN Service Centers and related services, which have been successfully implemented in Azerbaijan, according to Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute. He expressed interest in exploring similar AI-based collaborations with Ethiopia, building on Azerbaijan’s existing partnerships across Africa. The visit included a detailed exchange of experiences and ideas on AI applications in both countries, with a focus on identifying key areas for potential collaboration. Director-General of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute reiterated the institute’s willingness to work closely with the Azerbaijani government, particularly in the fields of AI and other emerging technologies, to foster stronger bilateral ties.

Addis Ababa, August 28/2024 (ENA) Conference on shaping an environmentally sustainable and inclusive digital future in Africa will be held in the 4th of September in Addis Ababa. UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) organized the conference in hybrid format both online and at the UN Conference Centre, Addis Ababa. The event will bring together different stakeholders to discuss the key findings for Africa from UNCTAD’s Digital Economy Report 2024. The report will highlight the urgent need for sustainable strategies throughout the life cycle of digitalization. The event will also stress the need for systematic shifts in the ICT sector to protect our planet and ensure the well-being of all. The rapid pace and expanding scope of digitalization make it increasingly important to understand the relationship between digitalization and environmental sustainability, according to ECA. Participants will explore ways to achieve economic prosperity while conserving our planet and promoting intergenerational equity. They will also generate actionable policy recommendations and foster strategic collaborations to address the dual challenges of digitalization and environmental sustainability in Africa. Ethiopian government officials, diplomats, UN officials, experts and other stakeholders will participate in this event.