Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair Visits Ethiopia AI Institute, Applauds AI-Driven Transformation of Public Services

Addis Ababa, July 23, 2026 (FMC) — Former UK Prime Minister and Founder and Executive Chairman of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, Tony Blair, has visited the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, highlighting the transformative role of artificial intelligence in modernizing public service delivery.

During his visit, Tony Blair held discussions with senior leadership of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute and the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change on areas of collaboration and ways to further enhance the application of artificial intelligence in Ethiopia.

Tony Blair said artificial intelligence is transforming government service delivery, noting its growing contribution to building more efficient and modern public services.

He expressed the commitment of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change to work in partnership with the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute to maximize the benefits of artificial intelligence and support Ethiopia’s digital transformation journey.

Director General of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute Dr. Worku Gachena appreciated the contributions of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change in supporting Ethiopia’s digitalization efforts.

He said the continued cooperation between the two institutions would help advance the development and practical application of artificial intelligence technologies in Ethiopia.

The collaboration comes as Ethiopia continues to strengthen its digital transformation agenda, with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence being positioned as key drivers of innovation, improved public services, and national development.