Africa’s Largest Drone Show Lights Up Addis Ababa Sky, Showcasing Ethiopia’s Tech Aspirations
Addis Ababa, May 16, 2025 (FMC) – A dazzling display of 1,500 drones lit up the night sky over Addis Ababa on Friday, marking the opening of the Ethiopian Technology Expo 2025 (ETEX 2025) with what has been hailed as the largest drone show ever held on the African continent.
More than a visual spectacle, the drone show served as a vivid symbol of Ethiopia’s ambition to lead the continent in digital innovation, integration, and technological self-reliance. The coordinated aerial performance illustrated 14 symbolic frames, highlighting the nation’s journey in algorithmic innovation, digital sovereignty, and inclusive growth.
Among the featured themes were Ethiopia’s rich legacy in computational thinking, its unity in diversity as a foundation for shared progress, and the success of initiatives such as the Green Legacy. The presentation also showcased Ethiopia’s emerging leadership in artificial intelligence through the work of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute and INSA’s efforts in protecting the country’s digital infrastructure.
Other frames emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to decentralized and trust-based systems, its national Science Museum as a monument to knowledge, and the scalability and resilience of its digital infrastructure. High-speed connectivity, continental tech integration, and Ethiopia’s role as Africa’s rising tech hub were central to the show’s message.
ETEX 2025, jointly organized by the Information Network Security Administration (INSA) and the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, is being held at the Addis International Convention Center (AICC) from May 16–18. The expo focuses on five thematic areas: cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, fintech, smart cities, and technology education.
More than 10,000 visitors are expected to attend the three-day event, which aims to highlight Ethiopia’s growing potential as a technological powerhouse and its vision for a secure and prosperous digital Africa.