PM Abiy Details How Digital Transformation and Tourism Are Reshaping #Ethiopia’s Economic Landscape

Addis Ababa, August 2, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s push toward a technology-driven economy and the expansion of tourism destinations are emerging as key elements of the country’s broader development trajectory, with digital skills, connectivity and heritage-focused investments opening new opportunities for growth.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted these transformations during a recent interview with Amhara Media Corporation (AMECO), outlining how digital advancement and tourism development are contributing to Ethiopia’s efforts to diversify its economy and create new pathways for citizens.

The Prime Minister pointed to the Five Million Ethiopian Coders Initiative as one of the major steps taken to expand digital skills and prepare citizens, particularly young people, for opportunities created by the growing digital economy. Through the initiative, more than 1.2 million people from the Amhara region have received training, according to the Prime Minister.

Beyond skills development, he emphasized that expanding digital access is becoming a critical part of Ethiopia’s economic transformation. The growth of mobile service users, wider internet coverage and the introduction of advanced connectivity services are gradually changing how citizens, businesses and institutions engage with technology.

In this regard, Prime Minister Abiy noted that five major cities in the Amhara region have gained access to 5G services, while about 200 cities have become users of 4G internet connectivity.

The expansion of digital infrastructure, combined with growing technology skills, is expected to strengthen participation in emerging economic activities and support Ethiopia’s ambitions to build a more innovation-driven economy.

Alongside digital transformation, the Prime Minister highlighted tourism development as another area where Ethiopia is working to unlock economic potential by upgrading destinations and preserving its historic and natural heritage.

He cited the Gorgora tourism project as a major undertaking designed to establish a destination capable of serving future generations by combining the area’s natural attractions with improved facilities and visitor services.

The Prime Minister also pointed to restoration and development efforts at some of Ethiopia’s most significant heritage sites, including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the historic Fasilides Palace in Gondar. The works, he said, are aimed at protecting Ethiopia’s cultural legacy while enhancing the country’s ability to benefit from tourism.

Other developments highlighted include tourism facilities around Logo Lake and the Felege Giyon Eco Resort in Bahir Dar, which have contributed to expanding attractions and improving accommodation options for visitors.

According to the Prime Minister, addressing gaps in tourism infrastructure, particularly around visitor facilities and hospitality services, remains an important part of strengthening the sector and increasing the competitiveness of destinations.

Together, the advances in digital technology and tourism development reflect Ethiopia’s broader effort to create diversified economic opportunities, where innovation, skills, culture and natural resources contribute to long-term growth.