Ethiopia Advances Strategic Engagement at World Economic Forum 2026

Addis Ababa, January 22, 2026 (FMC) – The Ethiopian delegation, led by Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, has continued its active engagement at the ongoing World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026 in Davos, now entering its fourth day.

Yesterday, at the “Shaping the Next Decade: Future of Global Health and Financing” roundtable hosted by Bill Gates, Minister Shide highlighted Ethiopia’s efforts to leverage digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to expand healthcare access, particularly in rural communities.

He called for long-term partnerships and sustainable financing to strengthen AI-enabled health systems, develop talent, and build resilient digital infrastructure across the country.

Minister Shide also participated in the session “Economies Beyond the Shock Cycle,” where he outlined key pillars for building economic resilience. These include fiscal sustainability, investment in regional energy grids and infrastructure, digital transformation for public service continuity, and sustained investment in human capital and economic diversification.

He further emphasized that AI and digital innovation can enhance government efficiency, generate jobs, bridge the digital divide, and position Ethiopia as future-ready and globally competitive.

On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Shide held bilateral discussions with global leaders, including Bill Gates and the EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, reinforcing Ethiopia’s commitment to innovation, strategic partnerships, and sustainable development.

Ethiopia’s participation at WEF 2026 underscores the country’s focus on harnessing innovation, digital transformation, and global collaboration as drivers of inclusive and sustainable growth.