Conference highlights need for collaboration in cybersecurity and digital transformation in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, June 14, 2025 (FMC) – A national conference on cybersecurity and digital transformation is underway in Addis Ababa, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss integrating security principles into digital systems and enhancing collaboration across sectors.

Opening the two-day forum, State Minister of Innovation and Technology Fozia Amin underscored the importance of adopting a “cybersecurity by design” approach—embedding security frameworks into systems from the early stages of development through implementation and operation.

She emphasized that securing digital infrastructure is vital for the smooth functioning of all sectors and that integrating robust cybersecurity from the outset builds trust among users, investors, educational institutions, and the wider public.

“People and organizations will embrace the digital economy when they feel secure about their digital engagement,” Fozia said, adding that the burden of securing the digital space cannot fall on a single ministry, agency, or even country.

Given the transboundary nature of cyber threats, she called for strong cooperation among government bodies, private sector actors, academia, civil society, and international partners to build a safe and resilient digital ecosystem.

Fozia also highlighted the need to cultivate local innovation and talent to stay ahead of evolving threats, encouraging research and knowledge-sharing that will shape both domestic policy and global cybersecurity understanding.

Regional Director for Africa at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Emmanuel Manasseh, echoed these points, noting that connectivity underpins digital transformation. As such, rising connectivity must be matched with robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard users.

President of the Ethiopian Cyber Security Association, Berhanu Beyene, further stressed the importance of comprehensive policies, strategies, and long-term engagement in addressing cybersecurity challenges. “Collaboration is one of the crucial elements in securing our digital assets and critical infrastructure,” he said, calling for both national and global efforts to meet the challenges of the evolving threat landscape.

The conference, according to ENA, continues tomorrow, with sessions focused on innovation, capacity building, and regional cooperation in cyber resilience.