Ethiopia’s Digital 2030 Strategy Crucial to Unlock Mining Potential, Says Minister Habtamu

Addis Ababa, December 24, 2025— Ethiopia’s Digital 2030 Strategy is pivotal to transform the nation’s untapped mineral wealth into a pillar of economic growth, according to Minister of Mines, Habtamu Tegegne.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, Habtamu emphasized that digitalization is key to unlocking immense opportunities within the industry.

The minister emphasized Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a pivotal tool for geological mapping, allowing experts to identify mineral types and calculate underground reserves with unprecedented accuracy.

According to the minister, the adoption of airborne geophysics stands as a flagship innovation under the Digital 2030 Strategy, bridging the gap between scientific research and real-world application.  

 

 

He emphasized that the technology significantly strengthens exploration efforts and “allows for more efficient resource extraction, ensuring Ethiopia to maximize its mineral wealth.”

As the sector becomes increasingly tech-driven, companies are reporting higher levels of precision in both exploration and extraction.

Beyond AI and geophysics, the Minister noted that various Ethiopian institutions are digitizing their core operations.

This widespread digital shift is crucial for streamlining administrative processes, boosting productivity, and fostering seamless communication across the industry, he stated, adding that these digital systems are expected to drive operational efficiency and contribute to Ethiopia's broader economic growth.

Despite the potential benefits, the journey toward digital transformation in mining necessitates significant investment, the Minister said, acknowledges that while the mining sector is experiencing progress, it requires substantial financial resources to fully integrate advanced technologies and digitization.

 

 In this respect, Ethiopia’s Digital 2030 Strategy is critical in advancing the mining sector, he noted.

“AI technology is making strides across various sectors, and while it's still emerging in the mining industry, efforts to digitize this sector are underway in the country. This transformation requires substantial investment. In this context, Ethiopia's Digital 2030 Strategy will play a pivotal role in advancing the digitalization of mining.”

The minister explained that the mining sector is undeniably one of Ethiopia's economic pillars, showing steady progress and expansion over recent years.  

With increasing international interest and investment, the nation's mining exports are on the rise, further solidifying the sector's role as a key contributor to the economy, he noted, adding that he is optimistic that, with the right investments and technological advancements, the mining sector can become a powerhouse for national development.

He further stated that Ethiopia continues to embrace the benefits of digitalization; the integration of advanced technologies that will significantly influence the future of the mining industry.  

The Digital 2030 Strategy also improves operational efficiencies, enhance environmental sustainability and ensure a more prosperous future for the nation, he added.  

Moreover, digitizing the mining sector through the Digital 2030 Strategy presents a unique opportunity for transforming the mining sector so as to contribute to the broader economic growth and development of the country.

“The mining sector stands as one of the country’s key economic pillars, currently experiencing significant progress. The future of this industry will be shaped by advancements in technology, including AI and digitization. Embracing digitalization is across all sectors including for transforming the mining industry of the nation.”

It was recently reported that Ethiopia has launched Digital Ethiopia 2030 Strategy, aiming to create strong capacity for digital technology, with a people-centered approach, to improve the lives of citizens.