PM Abiy emphasizes digital identity’s role in shaping a more inclusive world

Addis Ababa, May 20, 2025 (FBC) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has emphasized that digital identity is no longer an optional layer but an essential infrastructure for digital transformation, serving as a pillar of inclusion, integrity, and national development.

Delivering a keynote address at the 9th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of ID4Africa today in Addis Ababa, the Prime Minister noted: “In recent years, digital identity has evolved from a promising innovation into a foundational pillar of digital transformation. It is no longer an optional layer, it is an essential infrastructure that connects people to services, communities to institutions and governments to the aspirations of their citizens.”

The four-day AGM, being held in Ethiopia for the first time, has brought together over 2,000 delegates from across the world. Organized annually in different African countries, the ID4Africa AGM is the continent’s leading platform for advancing digital identity for development (ID4D). This year’s edition is hosted by the Office of the Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

The AGM provides a unique space for government officials, development partners, industry leaders, and civil society to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and discuss innovative approaches to building inclusive identity systems tailored to Africa’s needs.

Welcoming participants, PM Abiy underscored the deep historical and forward-looking value of identity in the Ethiopian context. “I also welcome you to Ethiopia, where identity is deeply rooted in history, connecting our past to our shared future.”

The Prime Minister said that for decades, Ethiopia’s identification systems were fragmented, creating barriers for millions. “The lack of a unified, trustworthy system created silos, duplication and inefficiencies. That’s why, few years ago, guided by the vision of Digital Ethiopia 2025, we made a choice to build a modern, inclusive, foundational and scalable digital identity system accessible to every resident, regardless of location, income or background.”

That system, Fayda—which means “value” in local languages—has so far reached close to 15 million people. PM Abiy stressed: “Fayda is not merely a card, it is a unique number that proves who you are while protecting your privacy and sharing only what is necessary.”

Highlighting its integration into major sectors such as finance, healthcare, education, and public services, the Prime Minister stated:“The true value of digital identity lies in its use. That’s why our strategy goes beyond this initial step by integrating Fayda across key sectors.”

He said digital transactions in the country have surpassed 12.5 trillion birr and that linking bank accounts to Fayda is enabling greater transparency and access: “For the first time, millions are gaining access to savings, credit and formal markets, thereby expanding inclusive participation in the productive economy.”

PM Abiy also praised Ethiopian developers for playing a central role in adapting open-source digital ID platforms for national use: “At the center of this transformation lies Ethiopian innovation. Ethiopian developers have played a central role in adapting an open-source platform to meet our national needs, ensuring technology sovereignty and laying a strong foundation for long-term sustainability and innovation.”

He said Fayda is helping position Ethiopia to participate more fully in Africa’s digital economy and the African Continental Free Trade Area: “Digital identity improves governance, streamlines service delivery and brings digital to every individual.”

Calling for wider collaboration, the Prime Minister said: “No government can do this alone. We call upon the private sector, civil society and international partners to join us. Because when identity is universal, trusted and empowering, then the development is no longer a promise, it becomes a reality.”

He thanked Dr. Joseph Atick, Executive Chairman of ID4Africa, for entrusting Ethiopia with hosting the event and encouraged delegates to explore the country during their stay.

“From the vibrant streets of Addis Ababa to unique cultures and breathtaking landscapes across our country, there is much to experience,” he said.

The Prime Minister closed his address with a rallying message: “Return home with renewed determination to build a future where every individual holds a trusted digital identity—one that empowers full participation in society, in the economy and one that drives inclusive progress across our continent.”

ID4Africa is a pan-African movement committed to supporting African nations in building robust and responsible identity ecosystems that drive socio-economic development, digital transformation, and humanitarian efforts.