Ethiopia Building AI Workforce, AI Startups Gradate

Addis Ababa, July 25, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia is developing a skilled workforce in artificial intelligence (AI) to safeguard its national interest and prepare for the future, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of AI startups trained over the past six months by the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, he noted that artificial intelligence is shaping and determining the course of tomorrow's world.

The Deputy Prime Minister stated that Ethiopia is investing in developing and empowering the next generation in the AI sector so that the country can harness the opportunities presented by the technology for national benefits and compete effectively in the future global landscape.

 

The first cohort of AI startup trainees graduating from the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute is a clear demonstration of the country's commitment to building AI capacity, he added.

DPM Temesgen urged the graduates to use the knowledge they acquired during the training to further develop innovations and provide practical solutions that benefit the country.

He also called on both government and non-government institutions to emulate the institute's exemplary work.

He affirmed the government's commitment to strengthening efforts to ensure that Ethiopia's startup ecosystem benefits not only the country but also young people across Africa.

For his part, Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute Director-General, Worku Gachena, said Ethiopia is implementing Africa's first Artificial Intelligence Policy and Strategy.

According to him, the policy has enabled the country to produce skilled digital professionals and develop innovative technologies that address real-world challenges.

AI technologies are being widely deployed in the justice sector, government service delivery, public administration, healthcare, and other public services, he stated.

 

The Director-General attributed the institute's achievements to sustained human capital development initiatives being carried out through startup incubation programs, summer camps, schools, and higher education institutions.

At the exhibition organized alongside the graduation ceremony, the trainees showcased AI-powered solutions they developed in the fields of healthcare, education, transportation, language technology, smart cities, finance, and human development.