Addis Ababa, October 22, 2025 (ENA) – The greater competitive advantage of Africa lies in the energy, adaptability and broader thinking of African young innovators across sectors, African Union Commission Deputy Chairperson Selma Malika Haddadi said. African Union Innovation Festival 2025 (AU InnoFest’25) themed, “Repositioning the African Union for Youth-Centered Innovation Leadership”, is taking place from October 22 to 24, 2025 at the AU premise in Addis Ababa. In her opening remarks, Haddadi emphasized that innovation and digitalization are crucial drivers of job creation, economic transformation, and effective service delivery that address Africa's priorities. The theme of AU InnoFest’25 resonates deeply with the continent's aspirations for locally relevant solutions crafted by Africans, for Africans, and fueled by Africa's unique context, she added. Innovation is vital and has always been central to Agenda 2063, roadmap for leveraging innovation to propel Africa's transformation, achieve self-reliance, and compete on the global stage, the Deputy Chairperson noted. She pointed out that AU’s vision of an innovation-driven Africa is powered by youth, creativity, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation, forming the cornerstone of the continent's innovation narrative. Africa’s competitive advantage lies in the energy, adaptability, and broad thinking of young innovators across diverse sectors, she noted. According to Haddadi, agriculture to fintech, health, and civic technology, young Africans are crafting solutions that are reshaping government operations, enhancing community connections, and creating new opportunities. The African Union recognizes that equipping youth with the right tools, skills, and platforms is not merely an act of inclusion but also a vital investment in Africa's collective future, she stressed, adding that the future will be shaped by those who intimately understand the challenges and potential of the continent. In this regard, initiatives such as the AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship have successfully integrated young innovators into AU departments, fostering collaboration to co-create impactful solutions. On her part, Women, Gender and Youth Director at AU Commission, Prudence Ngwenya, described AU InnoFest’25 as a transformative call to action, emphasizing AU's commitment to harnessing innovation for tangible and scalable solutions that improve the lives of Africans, particularly women and youth. She emphasized that the festival serves as a crucial platform for young innovators to enhance their roles in Africa's transformation efforts, underscoring the significance of engaging youth in innovation. Ngwenya pointed out that the theme of the festival calls for all stakeholders to strategically consider how to engage and co-create with Africa's young innovators.

Addis Ababa, October 17, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia’s Ministry of Labor and Skills announced that strong attention is given to the digital sector in a bid to enhance the country’s capacity for job creation. In collaboration with local and international partners, the ministry has organized the “2025 Future of Work Summit,” which kicked off today in Addis Ababa and will continue through October 18, 2025. The summit brings together employers, employees, and digital job platform operators to discuss strategies for connecting job seekers and employers through digital means. In his opening remarks, Solomon Soka, Labor and Skills State Minister, emphasized that the government has been giving significant attention to the development of the digital economy, noting that the sector plays a key role in the country’s employment generation efforts. “Globally, the digital economy is receiving great attention, and Ethiopia is no exception,” he said, adding that around 2 million Ethiopians have annually joined the digital labor market.   The government, he noted, is undertaking various initiatives to expand job opportunities in the sector. According to the state minister, the ministry has been implementing a wide range of activities to build the digital economy, including policy interventions, skills development, and technology enhancement programs, all aimed at increasing annual job creation. He also underlined that the digital sector is one of the five main pillars of Ethiopia’s economy, and the government is giving it special priority. Semegn Tadesse, CEO of Afriwork, a job search platform in Ethiopia, also noted that his platform has successfully connected a large number of employers and employees.   Afriwork has planned to expand its services nationwide as the government’s growing attention to the digital sector presents a great opportunity for private platforms. “As Ethiopia has a rapidly growing population, the increasing attention given by the government and stakeholders will enable more young people to access job opportunities in the digital sector,” Semegn noted. Hampus Holmer, Deputy Head for Trade and Policy at the Embassy of Sweden, on his part, reaffirmed Sweden’s strong commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s journey toward a dynamic and inclusive labor market. In this regard, he mentioned that the Ethiopia-Sweden Business Forum will be held in Addis Ababa after two months, bringing together companies and investors from both countries to explore partnerships in digitalization, green transition, and skills development. Holmer further emphasized that the future of work is not only about technology but also about people, equity, inclusion, and opportunity.

Addis Ababa, October 17, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethio telecom has launched its groundbreaking Znexus service that aims at providing millions of Ethiopians with affordable access to smart feature phones, tablets, laptops, and, thin client PCs. The initiative is a crucial part of Ethiopia's Horizon Strategy, which seeks to transform the country into a digitally empowered society by 2027/2028. During the launch event, CEO Frehiwot Tamiru highlighted a significant digital divide in the nation by stating that out of approximately 85.9 million Ethio telecom customers, only 47 million are currently utilizing the internet.   The lack of internet access among the remaining customers is largely attributed to affordability issues and a gap in digital skills. These barriers have limited their access to essential services such as digital finance, e-services, and smart agriculture, she said. "The Znexus tele cloud service is designed to bridge this affordability and usage gap," Frehiwot stated, emphasizing the service's potential to enhance digital literacy and drive financial inclusion. By leveraging cloud-based technology, Znexus significantly reduces the cost of devices, as all applications will be hosted in the cloud, allowing users to access them without the need for high-end hardware. The devices made available through Znexus include feature phones, tablets, workstations, and laptops, all tailored to support Ethiopia's "Digital First" vision. "Znexus will undoubtedly help bridge the digital divide among our customers," Frehiwot asserted, reinforcing the service's role in promoting equitable access to technology.   Ethio telecom's experience, having already served over 800 institutions with Tele cloud services, has equipped them with valuable insights into customer needs and preferences. Currently, 936 towns benefit from 4G coverage; and by the end of this budget year, the company aims to supply 3.5 million low-cost devices, making digital finance accessible to an even broader audience. The Znexus devices will come with built-in systems and will incorporate Telebirr, Ethio telecom's mobile payment solution, allowing users to engage in digital finance seamlessly. With approximately 57 million customers already utilizing Telebirr, the introduction of affordable devices is expected to further expand this digital financial ecosystem. These new devices will not only be affordable but also user-friendly, with extended battery life and pre-loaded services that cater to the diverse needs of Ethiopian consumers. Frehiwot concluded by emphasizing the importance of this initiative in achieving a thriving, digitally empowered Ethiopia, positioning the nation as a leader in digital transformation in the region.

Addis Ababa, October 15, 2025 (ENA) -- There are immense opportunities in Africa for innovation and prosperity through vocational training and skill development tailored to modern labor market demands, European Association of Institutes for Vocational Training (EVBB) Secretary General, Theodor Grassos, noted. Stressing the significance of Africa's youthful population and the current wave of investments across the continent, he told ENA that the youth can be trained to be active participants in the labor market with the right curricula.   “I don’t see a lot of challenges. The key is the energy we all must bring together to move forward,” he said. Grassos underscored the critical need for equipping people with the skills necessary to support ongoing investments, noting that “people are, at the end of the day, the driving force for development.” He described the European Association of Institutes for Vocational Training's mission as connecting organizations and fostering collaboration between European, African, and Ethiopian expertise. The association is working to renew educational curricula, issue new certifications, and prepare individuals for the workforce, it was learned. According to the Secretary General, enhancing vocational training would ultimately empower Africa’s youth to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market. On her part, Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer of the Cross-Functional Kryptr company based in Nigeria, Nwando Ogo, emphasized the urgent need for cultivating a skilled workforce to drive the African businesses and economy.   Africa's youthful demographic embodies vitality, strength, creativity, and innovation, she added. Furthermore, Ogo emphasized the need for intentional efforts to upskill the workforce, enabling young people to contribute effectively to industrialization and the green transition. The nature of industrialization has evolved, shifting from traditional engineering to embracing digital technologies and artificial intelligence, she said, adding that Africa “must be aware of the relevant skills needed today and ensure that training initiatives align with these shifts”. Ogo observed that many young people feel pressured to enter the workforce without fully exploring their career aspirations, stressing the need to align educational systems from primary to tertiary levels with the demands of today's society. She recommended the creation of supportive environments for the youth alongside educational curricula that prioritize upskilling without burdening young people with economic pressures. In this regard, Ogo praised Ethiopia’s commitment to youth development and job creation, citing initiatives like the effort to connect job seekers with available opportunities, ensuring a better match between employer demand and ready-to-work talent.

Addis Ababa, October 15, 2025 (ENA) -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched its digital transformation program aimed at modernizing its operations, improving efficiency, and enhancing service delivery. Speaking at the opening of training organized for employees and junior diplomats today, Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timothewos stated that digitalization marks a significant step toward building a modern, transparent, and responsive foreign Service system aligned with Ethiopia’s digital economy strategy. Gedion said that the initiative, which is part of the reform and innovation activities of the 118-year-old public institution, will mainly focus on three key issues, including documentation and archives management, internal and external communications and correspondence, and streamlined and synergistic workflow. The previous analogue-based workflow had created bottlenecks, creating institutional inefficiency and delayed decision-making, the minister noted. Gedion added that for over a hundred years, much of our diplomatic communication, documentation, and administrative procedures were handled manually. This often led to data fragmentation, slower response, and difficulty in coordination between headquarters and missions abroad, the minister pointed out. According to him, the new digital portals — designed to handle both internal operations and consular services — will enable faster document processing, real-time data sharing, and improved coordination among Ethiopia’s embassies and consulates worldwide. “Through this transition, our diplomats and staff will be better equipped to respond swiftly to global developments and serve Ethiopian citizens abroad with greater efficiency,” he said.

Addis Ababa, October 14, 2025 (ENA) -- On the second day of the 45th edition of GITEX Global, one of the world’s largest and most influential tech events, African youth entrepreneurs are making a bold impression — not only by showcasing their innovations but also by calling on their governments to increase investment in technology and innovation ecosystems back home. GITEX has long been a Launchpad for groundbreaking ideas, and this year, it is proving to be a significant platform for young African innovators to connect with global industry leaders, investors, and partners. Approached by the Pulse of Africa (POA) reporter in Dubai, African participants expressed their joy over the event. Among the many promising entrepreneurs is Blessing Aniefiok, Co-founder of Dynalimb, a Nigerian company pioneering the development of affordable 3D-printed prosthetic limbs.   “Dynalimb’s mission is to make prosthetic limbs more accessible to people in developing countries,” Blessing explained. “Our products are made from locally sourced materials and are customized for each patient. We want to ensure that no one is left behind due to cost or availability.” Praising the impact of GITEX, Blessing added, “GITEX Global helps us gain visibility and connect with more partners, innovators, and distributors. It’s a fantastic opportunity. We have so many young people doing amazing things.” Ebenezer B. Teye, a Ghanaian working as a Global Support Engineer at MONTORAPP, a South Korea-based cybersecurity company, emphasized the need for governmental support in fostering tech development across Africa.   “For technology to thrive in Africa, we need strong government backing,” he stressed. “There are still many grey areas—untapped, unexplored—and people are skeptical. But if governments invest, Africans will try, and they will thrive.” Ebenezer drew parallels with Korea’s success in tech, highlighting how state investment has driven innovation. He cautioned that without ownership of the technologies they use, Africans risk losing their sovereignty. “If African governments don’t invest in the future of technology, the next generation will be consumers of irrelevant tech rather than creators of impactful solutions.”   He also praised GITEX for offering invaluable exposure and insights. He said, “Because of GITEX, we see the future of cybersecurity, the future of the industry—it shows us the way forward.” Saad Madi, Start-Up Program Manager at Morocco-based BMAQ Innovation Hub, echoed the sentiment that Africa holds enormous potential in tech innovation. “Our mission is to incubate start-ups and help them scale, connecting them with investors,” Saad said. “GITEX plays a decisive role in creating networking opportunities. The people you meet here are ones you won’t find in ordinary settings.” Saad emphasized the rising momentum across African nations in the fields of start-ups, artificial intelligence, and tech innovation. “Countries like Egypt, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Morocco are showing incredible progress in tech. We’ve done research confirming this rising tide of innovation across the continent.” The 2025 edition of GITEX Global has brought together over 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 start-ups, and 1,200 investors from more than 180 countries. Africa’s participation has been especially vibrant, with several innovators, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs from across the continent showcasing their work. As the event continues, one message resonates clearly from the African delegation: the youth are ready, the ideas are ripe, and what’s now needed is support—particularly from African governments—to turn innovation into impact.

Addis Ababa, October 13, 2025 (ENA) -- The 45th edition of GITEX Global, the world’s largest tech and startup show, officially opened today at the Dubai World Trade Centre, drawing a record-breaking crowd of 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, and 1,200 investors from over 180 countries. Among the most vibrant delegations this year are African innovators and investors, who are leveraging the platform for unprecedented global exposure and collaboration opportunities. One of those making waves is Samuel Ogbonyomi, CEO of Pipeops, a Nigerian cloud application deployment platform that simplifies software deployment and infrastructure management through no-code tools.   Exhibiting at GITEX for the first time, Ogbonyomi said the event has been a game-changer for his company. “GITEX gave us a unique opportunity to showcase our innovation on a global stage,” he said. “We’ve connected with investors, consumers, and business leaders from across the world. This kind of exposure is invaluable—not just for our growth, but for putting African tech on the global map.” Also representing the continent is Samuel Ngugi Njuhi, Regional Director at SCORT, a Kenyan company providing cutting-edge wireless sensor technologies. Speaking at the event, Njuhi highlighted the real-world impact of SCORT’s innovations in sectors like agriculture, transportation, and infrastructure. “Our sensors help monitor fuel usage in everything from generators to heavy machinery—enhancing efficiency, safety, and transparency,” he explained. “Technology can uplift communities and restore dignity. African governments must invest in these innovations to improve access to education, healthcare, and opportunity.”   This year’s GITEX Global has focused on next-generation technologies tackling some of humanity’s biggest challenges—climate resilience, digital healthcare, cybersecurity, and smart urban mobility. Notably, Artificial Intelligence has taken center stage at the event, with AI-powered innovations dominating exhibits and keynote sessions. The global AI market is expected to grow to $4.8 trillion by 2033, according to the United Nations. This shows how important AI is becoming. GITEX 2025 highlights this trend, serving as a major event where tech companies compete to lead in the AI-powered future. For African participants, the message is clear: the future of technology includes Africa—and Africa is ready.

Addis Ababa, October 11, 2025 (ENA) -- Recognizing that cybersecurity is interconnected with the sovereignty of the nation, the joint actions being implemented in the area of cybersecurity need to be strengthened, Head of Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Alemtsehay Paulos, underscored. The 6th National Cybersecurity Month commenced in Addis Ababa today, aimed at raising awareness about the importance of digital safety and security. During the occasion, Alemtsehay stated that in this rapidly evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity has become a fundamental aspect of national sovereignty for Ethiopia, she added.   Stating that cybersecurity would play a pivotal role in ensuring the nation's resilience against potential cyber threats, Alemtsehay pointed out that the Cyber Security Month serves not only as an educational platform but as a call for action for all Ethiopians and organizations to prioritize their digital safety. She added that the month-long campaign is designed to educate citizens, businesses, and organizations about the growing threats imminent in the digital landscape, thereby promoting best practices for cybersecurity. Information Network Security Agency (INSA) Director General, Tigist Hamid on her part, highlighted the necessity for comprehensive cybersecurity measures as the country has extensively embarked on digital transformation.   The campaign is a reminder that everyone has a role to play in safeguarding the digital environment, she said, adding that through various awareness programs and panel discussions across the nation, it empowers citizens and institutions with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from cyber threats. Ethiopia's effort to develop its digital infrastructure and robust cybersecurity measures is critical for secure development initiatives in the country. The cybersecurity campaign fosters a safer digital environment that supports economic growth and the digital safety of the citizens, she pointed out.  

Addis Ababa, October 10, 2025 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has launched the Digital 2030 Strategy, a bold next step after the success of Digital 2025, to drive smarter, automated, and more efficient public service delivery. In a social media post, PM Abiy noted that: “Following the successful completion of the Digital 2025 Strategy, which focused on technology-driven modernization, we have now launched the Digital 2030 Strategy to further enhance service delivery through greater automation.” Recognizing that access to justice is one of the most important needs of our citizens, the Federal Supreme Court remains committed to building a judicial system that is fast, transparent, and efficient. “I am pleased to note today that the Federal Supreme Court has developed a Smart Court System, which includes an automated voice-to-text transcription feature to ensure that all case proceedings are recorded accurately and remain tamper-proof,” the Premier sated. He further stated that the system also supports virtual hearings, enabling justice seekers to participate in their cases remotely, without the need to travel to Addis Ababa. In addition, a Network Operations Center and an Integrated Case Management System have been established, allowing litigants to track their cases digitally, according to PM Abiy. At present, 24 federal branches are covered under this strategy, which is an encouraging start that we hope will soon be expanded to regional courts as well, the Prime Minister pointed out.

Addis Ababa, October 9, 2025 (ENA) -- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized Ethiopia's progress in digitalization and the importance of utilizing Africa's young talent for regional development at the 24th COMESA summit, according to the Press Secretary for the Office of the Prime Minister, Billene Seyoum. Today, the 24th Summit of the COMESA Authority of Heads of State and Government took place in Nairobi, attended by leaders from COMESA member countries, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia. The summit's theme was "Leveraging Digitization to Deepen Regional Value Chains for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth."   Prime Minister Abiy underscored in his address at the summit that digitalization is a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s homegrown economic reform agenda, Billene said. PM Abiy showcased the country's advancements in building robust digital infrastructure and fostering a large talent pool through initiatives like the Coders Initiative.   These efforts reflect Ethiopia’s commitment to creating a strong digital foundation to drive growth and transformation, she noted. Since taking office in 2018, Prime Minister Abiy has been a steadfast advocate for regional integration, digitalization across the continent.   Billene highlighted Ethiopia’s recent rollout of the national ID system and automation of government services as key examples of digital progress. She noted that programs like the Coders Initiative equip youth with essential skills for a rapidly digitizing world. The prime minister stressed that national digitalization efforts must align with broader regional integration goals to maximize impact.   She said that the premier also emphasized the potential of Africa’s young population as a valuable resource for development. According to her, the premier urged African nations to leverage the continent’s abundant youth talent and resources.

Addis Ababa, October 8, 2025 (ENA) -- The Ministry of Transport and Logistics announced that it will replace and modernize car plate numbers and improve the vehicle identification system. This morning, Transport and Logistics Minister Alemu Sime briefed the press on the draft Directive No. 1050/2025 for the Types of Vehicles Identification Number Plate and Symbols Determination and Service Delivery, which is slated for implementation in the current Ethiopian Fiscal Year. The new system aims to replace the current system, which has been operational for over two decades, with a secure, technologically advanced, and nationally uniform standard. According to Alemu, "It has become necessary to conform with international agreements... and to have uniform and consecutive identification number plates for vehicles that will be registered".   The new system is designed to unify the identification standard that will serve to enhance a sense of shared national identity and control in the transport sector. The new plate numbers will therefore simplify the visual design to only three different colors and, most importantly, incorporate advanced security features, he added. The core of the change lies in a technologically-driven overhaul and each new plate will include security features such as holograms, watermarks, and micro-text to prevent fraud. Furthermore, the plates will feature RFID chips and QR codes for easy, secure digital record-keeping and tracking by authorized bodies, making the plates digitally readable by enforcement systems, the Minister elaborated. Moreover, the new design will also incorporate the internationally recognized code "ETH", aligning the country with the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. The new directive radically simplifies this patchwork system while meeting global standards, he said. Ethiopia has over 1.6 million registered vehicles under the existing, outdated system. The identification features approximately 16 different types of plates with varying colors and numbers across the regional states, leading to complexity and confusion. Transport and Logistics State Minister, Gebru Hassen, said the existing plate number has been in operation for over 23 years. It has resulted in a significant wastage of wealth, he stated, adding that the primary goal of the new directive is to save public funds by utilizing high-quality materials efficiently and by implementing a proper system to track and discard returned plates, which the current legal framework lacks.

Addis Ababa, October 6, 2025 (ENA) -- The government of Ethiopia has put in place policies, proclamations, regulations, and guidelines at the national level to ensure modern, efficient, and innovative civil service delivery, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh revealed. The Deputy Prime Minister inaugurated the Bahir Dar Mesob One-Stop Service Center, officially marking the beginning of its operations. Temesgen revealed on social media post that policies, proclamations, regulations, and guidelines have been put in place at the national level to ensure modern, efficient, and innovative civil service delivery. He said that to realize our vision of shared prosperity, modernizing service delivery and strengthening development capacity are essential. “What began in Addis Ababa through local resources and expertise is now expanding to the regions— with Bahir Dar among the cities taking an active role in implementation,” he stated. Delivering timely and quality services to citizens, whether they live near or far, holds great significance for our nation, Temesgen underscored. Finally, the Deputy PM said “Looking ahead, service delivery must continue to evolve—by ensuring that information is consistently accessible through well-organized digital platforms.”

Addis Ababa, October 3, 2025 (ENA)—Africa needs to address its developmental challenges, particularly in the context of economic recession and data management, as emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are posing threats to data sovereignty of the continent, IRPAD Executive Director Mamadou Goita said. At a press briefing some participants of the Pan-African Convening on the Future of Biological Technologies in Food and Agriculture meeting gave today, the Executive Director of Institute for Research and Promotion of Alternatives in Development (IRPA) emphasized the critical role of data in tackling the challenges. Reliable data is necessary for effective decision-making and resource management, he noted, adding that the continent faces significant threats from what he termed "data colonialism," where external entities dominate data collection and control, potentially leading to the exploitation of Africa’s resources. "The ownership of these data often lies in the hands of foreign companies, which poses a significant risk to our sovereignty," he warned. To combat these threats, Goita called for the establishment of strong and informed regulations to protect the continent’s interests in the ongoing collaboration with the African Union to develop a framework for assessing technologies proposed to African nations. The Executive Director also highlighted the need for model laws to guide countries in creating effective legal frameworks urgently. "Many countries are struggling to establish data protection laws. We currently have 16 countries working on such legislation, with 24 more in the process." In addition, Goita stressed the importance of grassroots mobilization, calling for capacity-building efforts to educate local communities, including farmers and indigenous groups, about the implications of new technologies. On his part, Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) General Coordinator, Million Belay, said digitalization represents a fusion of biology and the digital realm with many institutions viewing it as a positive development for humanity. However, he urged participants to adopt a political economy perspective, questioning the power dynamics involved in the creation and ownership of these technologies. Million highlighted the precarious position of African farmers and communities, noting that they often serve as data providers without reaping the benefits. "We do not own the intellectual property rights, data centers, or the digital infrastructure. These are predominantly controlled by companies outside the continent." According to him, nine of the world’s richest companies are data companies that profit from African data without providing any returns to the information providers. Sabrina Masinjila, Senior Program Officer for Agrology, Food Justice, and Sovereignty at the Society for International Development, stressed that Africa needs robust data governance frameworks in place to protect traditional knowledge and germplasm. "Digitalization is appropriating our germplasm and traditional knowledge, threatening the very foundation of African food and seed systems," she warned, calling for protective mechanisms to safeguard these vital resources for the future. Barbara Ntambirweki, a researcher working with ETC Group said Africa wants farmers to be at the heart of technology development. She stressing the need for promoting indigenous knowledge and customs in technology narratives. "Many technologies currently promoted in Africa do not prioritize the needs of our farmers. We need to uplift and support indigenous innovations that can truly help us tackle the challenges we face," she explained. AI Market and Power Fellow with the European AI and Society Fund, Jim Thomas, said emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence tools, require vast amounts of continuous data; and companies are increasingly looking to Africa for these resources as it has 42 percent of the world’s youth. Thomas emphasized the importance of involving African youth in these discussions as they are the primary data providers for AI companies. "Building intergenerational conversations is essential for understanding the impacts of these technologies on various movements, including health, digital rights, and food sovereignty." The three-day Pan-African Convening on the Future of Biological Technologies in Food and Agriculture meeting is on its second day.

Addis Ababa, October 2, 2025 (ENA) – The State Minister of Planning and Development, Seyoum Mekonnen, pointed out that the convergence of biological and digital realms marks a paradigm shift in nourishing our nations, citing the stark paradox where Africa, despite having over 60% of the world's uncultivated arable land, remains a net food importer. A Pan-African conference on the Future of Biodigital Technologies in Food and Agriculture convened in Addis Ababa today, hosted by the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA). In his opening address at the conference, Seyoum underscored the urgent need for a fundamental transformation of Africa's food system. He added that food sovereignty and agroecology are not mere ideals but achievable realities for all Africans. Recall that two landmark events UN Climate Week and the Second Africa Climate Summit were convened in Addis Ababa early September that highlighted the essential role of digitalization in building climate resilience and fostering a sustainable, low-emission future Stating "the convergence of biological and digital realms mark a paradigm shift in nourishing our nations," he pointed out a stark paradox where Africa, despite having over 60% of the world's uncultivated arable land, remains a net food importer. He described this contradiction as a pressing call to action, emphasizing that digital technology can drive the necessary transformation. Seyoum stated that Ethiopia is not just a bystander in the global climate and digital revolution but is actively shaping it. The State Minister referenced the Addis Ababa Declaration from the recent African Climate Summit, which advocates for homegrown solutions. In response, Ethiopia launched the Africa Climate Innovation Compact to scale up technologies that support this vision. Ethiopia’s commitment is further demonstrated in the Enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 3.0, which aims for a 70.3% reduction in emissions by 2035. Seyoum highlighted digital innovation as the driving force behind this commitment, supported by the national strategy, Digital Ethiopia 2025. He also mentioned the rollout of the Fayda Digital ID, a critical step towards transparency, ensuring that climate funds effectively reach smallholder farmers and women-led enterprises by enhancing Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance and minimizing fraud. The State Minister stressed for collaborative efforts to harness digital technology, stressing that the time for action is now to re-imagine and transform Africa's food systems.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2025 (ENA) – Amhara Regional State Chief Administrator Arega Kebede underscored that the government is making multifaceted efforts to ensure efficient service delivery, emphasizing that establishing a modern and technology-based system is essential to realizing these efforts. Mesob One-Stop Service Center was officially launched today in Bahir Dar City, Amhara regional state, with the presence of Amhara Regional State Chief Administrator Arega Kebede, Minister of Planning and Development Fitsum Assefa, as well as other high-ranking government officials. Speaking on the occasion, Amhara Regional State Chief Administrator Arega Kebede stressed the need for establishing a modern and technology-based system to ensure smooth service delivery.   He said the government is making multifaceted efforts to ensure efficient service delivery, emphasizing that establishing a modern and technology-based system is essential to ensure efficient service delivery. Recalling that efforts have been made to bring the one-stop service center to the region, he said that following the swift completion of the service center by the regional government, Mesob One-Stop Service was commenced today at the regional level. The one-stop service will save time and labor, as well as ensure fairness, accountability, and a smooth trade and investment system, he affirmed. Minister of Planning and Development Fitsum Assefa, for her part, stated the government’s ongoing endeavors to make public institutions’ service delivery modern and swift, and efficient.   Concerted effort is being undertaken to establish an efficient system to sustainably address the issue of service delivery as a country, she added. Mesob One-Stop Service Center is one of the demonstrations of the endeavors being implemented by the government, the Minister said, adding it is being implemented across all parts of the country. Noting that various activities are being carried out to make service delivery modern and efficient in government institutions, the minister further affirmed the commitment of the government to continue such endeavors in a more intensified manner. The Mesob One-Stop Service Center, inaugurated in April 2025 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, aims to transform public service delivery in Ethiopia by providing citizens with integrated, efficient, and transparent government services.

Addis Ababa, September 27, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia’s Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola and his Chinese counterpart Yin Hejum, along with their respective delegations, discussed ways of enhancing collaboration in the areas of Innovation and Technology. The discussion focused on the areas of science and technology, people-to-people exchange, joint lab technology transfer, and Science Park, among others. During the occasion, Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola said a lot has been done together, stressing the need for harnessing the joint effort to work more in the sector.   Ethiopia and China have immense potential that can be further cultivated for mutual benefit, he underlined. Belete also noted that Ethiopia aspires to be a frontier in the digital economy. The implementation of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) would have a significant contribution to achieving our goal, he indicated.   Ethiopia has registered several achievements in the digital economy, he noted, emphasizing the need to foster collaboration in the area. Science and technology, peace, education, health, climate change mitigation, infrastructure development, agriculture, and research are among the focus areas of cooperation that need to be strengthened, the minister added. Chinese Science Technology Minister Yin Hejum, on his part, expressed a desire to deepen mutually beneficial and practical cooperation by focusing on areas of common interest.   He added that both sides need to explore shared interests to implement joint research programs, encouraging institutions, universities, and companies from the two countries to conduct joint research across disciplines and cross-field cooperation. To enhance Science Technology and Innovation cooperation under the Belt and Road framework, he encouraged Ethiopia to participate under the Belt and Road framework in Science and Technology Innovation action plan. He also mentioned the priority areas in science and technology, people-to-people exchange programs, joint lab technology transfer, and the Science Park. Special cooperation programs in special information technology, science and technology support for poverty alleviation, sustainable development, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, and traditional Chinese medicine are also among the collaboration areas, he elaborated.

Addis Ababa, September 25, 2025 (ENA) -- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is currently attending the World Atomic Week conference in Moscow, Russia. The international forum World Atomic Week, the largest event dedicated to the nuclear sector and related industries, commenced today in Moscow. The event, timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Russian nuclear industry, is being held at Moscow's Exhibition of National Economy Achievements (VDNH). Representatives from more than 100 countries and over 10,000 visitors are expected to attend the event. Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy is also in Moscow to attend the conference. On the sidelines of the event, the premier met with the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi.  

Addis Ababa, September 25, 2025 (ENA) - Ethiopia and China have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on digital and emerging technologies that accelerate Ethiopia’s digital economy transformation and create jobs. The meeting between ministers of the two countries fostered dialogue on areas for joint action in digital technology, reflecting their long-standing diplomatic ties. Speaking during the signing of the MoU, Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola said the upgraded bilateral relationship into a strategic partnership in 2023 has propelled cooperation across key sectors.   The Minister emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to realizing its “Digital Ethiopia 2025” vision, an ambitious plan that includes expansion in AI, IoT, big data cloud services, satellite communications, fiber-optic infrastructure, and 5G networks to enhance public digital service delivery and create employment opportunities for youth. According to him, Ethiopia is prioritizing digital economy development with strong government support, promoting transparency and accountability through policy and strategic frameworks. China’s Industry and Information Technology Minister Li Lecheng underlined his country’s extensive experience in digital infrastructure development and its desire to deepen ICT cooperation with Africa. He expressed China’s commitment to sharing expertise to strengthen Ethiopia’s capacity and ensure mutually beneficial outcomes from the partnership.   Both ministers have noted the growing importance of digital technology in improving citizens’ quality of life and advancing national development agendas. They further agreed that exchanging knowledge and expertise will make the strategic partnership more productive and impactful. The MoU symbolizes a milestone in Ethiopia-China diplomatic and technological collaboration that dates back to 1970, it was learned.   The MoU is expected to accelerate Ethiopia’s digital transformation and contribute to sustainable socioeconomic development, benefiting both countries and their people. Moreover, it aims to boost joint initiatives in telecommunications foundation expansion, emerging technology industries, and cooperative projects that enhance the digital economy landscape in Ethiopia and the broader African region.

Addis Ababa, September 20, 2025 (POA) -- Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh affirmed that the government is working to pass on a lasting legacy to the next generation by creating a competent and competitive society in all fields, particularly in technology. Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the 2025 Summer Camp training offered by the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, DPM Temesgen stressed that the government is committed to building a generation equipped with knowledge, skills, and innovation. The graduation ceremony was also attended by Director General of the Institute, Engineer Dr. Worku Gachna, and other senior government officials.   In his message, DPM Temesgen underlined that the missed opportunities of the past should not be repeated; instead, the country must hand over to the coming generation a legacy of progress and innovation, not one of conflict and backwardness. According to him, activities focused on generation-building are being carried out across all sectors to ensure national competitiveness. Emphasizing the role of the Institute, the deputy prime minister explained that the summer training program, launched three years ago, has been instrumental in equipping young people with the latest technological knowledge. Artificial intelligence (AI) represents the coming revolution, and Ethiopia is working tirelessly to prepare for this transformation while also catching up on lost opportunities, he added.   He further stated that the government is creating a strong national capacity in AI by strengthening the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute and by promoting technological innovations that support the Digital Ethiopia strategy. AI, he said, is vital for economic growth across sectors as it provides solutions to complex problems and enhances the quality of products and services. Concluding his remarks, DPM Temesgen assured that the initiative to train young people in emerging technologies will be expanded and reinforced to ensure that Ethiopia develops a generation ready to compete on the global stage.   According to information posted on social media of the institute, the annual Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summer Training Program for young people was successfully held at the Science Museum. Delivering a congratulatory speech, the Director General of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, Dr. Worku Gachena, highlighted that AI is the technology that defines the era.   He further added that it is the fourth round of the summer training program this year, and every time has been producing good results. The director general also appreciated the trainees' dedication, discipline, and innovativeness and described them as a source of hope for the future of Ethiopia. This year, 300 youngsters from all across the country enrolled in the two-month program, it stated, adding that the training covered a wide range of disciplines, including computer vision, basics of AI, programming, robotics, machine learning, and natural language processing.

Addis Ababa, September 4, 2025 (ENA) -- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stressed the importance of building military capability to sustain the ongoing economic development journey to ensure Ethiopia's prosperity. The premier has today visited the Aero Abay drone manufacturing facility. In his remarks concerning the visit, the Prime Minister emphasized that economic transformation is one of the fundamental pillars supporting a nation, and he pointed out that Ethiopia is realizing substantial achievements in this regard. Abiy mentioned that due to economic reforms, Ethiopia has emerged as one of the countries making strides in economic advancement. He further stated that reinforcing economic growth—which is progressing positively—with military strength is crucial to ensuring prosperity. The Prime Minister asserted that the achievement of prosperity in Ethiopia and its transformation are indisputable realities, emphasizing that the economic journey currently underway must be bolstered by military capability. Furthermore, he remarked that a nation's progress is evaluated not solely by its financial resources but also by its military capabilities. PM Abiy described Ethiopia as a nation with significant potential for prosperity, stating that the advancements and outcomes being realized in agriculture, industry, technology, tourism, and mining need to be bolstered by military strength. He noted that today’s visit demonstrates the military capabilities that Ethiopia is building alongside its economic development. The Aero Abay drone manufacturing facility is producing reconnaissance drones capable of easily transporting a variety of equipment, in addition to commercial drones, Abiy revealed, pointing out that numerous institutions are also engaged in the manufacturing of drones. The Prime Minister reflected on the fact that years ago, Ethiopia encountered the difficulty of acquiring drones, rather than equipping itself with them. However, he noted that the country has now progressed from merely buying drones to producing them using its own capability. Furthermore, Abiy emphasized that military capability, through the use of technology, is a tool to protect Ethiopia's progress when a threat arises that endangers the nation's existence and sovereignty.