Addis Ababa, May 27, 2025 (FBC) — According to a report by iAfrica.com, a division of Africa.com Media Group, Ethiopia is positioning itself as a frontrunner in Africa’s artificial intelligence (AI) development, with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasizing the country’s commitment to driving the continent’s digital transformation through homegrown AI technologies.
Speaking at the Ethiopian Tech Expo 2025 (ETEX 2025) held this month at the Addis International Convention Center, Prime Minister Abiy outlined Ethiopia’s vision for a digitally sovereign Africa—one that creates, controls, and governs its own technological platforms in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
“With a clear strategic vision and bold investments, Africa must lead AI development on its own terms, grounded in ethical principles, inclusion, and sustainability,” the Prime Minister said.
The iAfrica.com report highlights key national initiatives such as the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, the Digital ID program, and the “5 Million Coders” campaign as examples of Ethiopia’s tangible progress in AI innovation.
ETEX 2025, which opened on May 16 and is co-organized by the Information Network Security Administration (INSA) and the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, has attracted over 10,000 participants from across Africa and beyond. The expo focuses on cybersecurity, AI, fintech, smart cities, and technology education.
A highlight of the event, as noted by iAfrica.com, was a record-breaking drone show featuring 1,500 drones—the largest in Africa—that depicted Ethiopia’s digital journey and its ambition to become a regional innovation hub.
Prime Minister Abiy also called for a unified continental effort to build digital resilience and sovereignty through collaboration on policy, infrastructure, and education to ensure inclusive progress in the AI era.
Ethiopia’s proactive investments in AI and digital infrastructure are positioning the country as a key player in shaping Africa’s technological future.