Ethiopia accelerates digital transformation, workforce development

Addis Ababa, April 13, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia has made notable strides in digital transformation and workforce development over the past nine months, according to the Ministry of Innovation and Technology.

Minister of Innovation and Technology, Belete Molla emphasized the implementation of a comprehensive macroeconomic policy designed to enhance digital infrastructure, promote innovation, and create employment opportunities.

Speaking during a third-quarter performance review, the minister clarified that the ministry’s key objectives that includes advancing digital operations, expanding infrastructure, and building a modern, innovation-driven ecosystem.

“Strategic partnerships with private companies, government entities, and international organizations have been instrumental in driving these initiatives forward,” he noted.

According to the minister, one major milestone has been the widespread adoption of digital payment platforms such as CBEBirr and TeleBirr, which have processed nearly 800 billion birr in transactions and this shift has helped reduce currency printing costs and strengthen Ethiopia’s digital economy.

Elaborating about the communication facilities, the minister emphasized that the two Telecom providers EthioTelecom and Safaricom have played a critical role in expanding digital infrastructure and connectivity, contributing to increased mobile usage and internet penetration nationwide.

He also stressed that the rollout of the Digital ID system under the Fayda Project has registered over 14 million citizens, marking a significant advancement in digital governance.

In connection to the workforce development, the minister reported that 688,000 Ethiopians have received training through the “5 Million Ethio-Coders” initiative since its launch in July last year and of these, 270,000 has already received international certifications, enhancing their competitiveness in the global tech industry.

These efforts, according to the minister, have also aimed to support entrepreneurship, startup growth, and the creation of new resources.

He also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to formulating and executing policies that will contribute in ensuring the technological ecosystem that could accelerate the country’s transition into a robust and inclusive digital economy.