As Ethiopia accelerates its digital transformation journey and aims to establish a robust digital economy, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a key area of focus for the government. This emphasis was highlighted during a recent discussion on ETV's "New Day" program, where experts underscored the critical need for robust personal data protection and enhanced cybersecurity measures alongside technological advancements.
Dr. Ing. Meles Ayalew, a researcher at the Bio and Emerging Technology Institute, affirmed the government's strong commitment to the AI sector. He noted the significance of the inaugural East Africa Expo 2025, which commenced today, as a platform to showcase various AI innovations and foster greater public understanding of the technology.
The importance of cybersecurity in this digital evolution was stressed by cybersecurity expert Rahel Fidele. While acknowledging the encouraging initial steps taken by Ethiopia in information security, she cautioned that substantial work remains. Fidele identified the widespread use of illegal software as a major threat to national and institutional data security. She advocated for the proactive development of organized threat mitigation strategies and the cultivation of a skilled workforce capable of swiftly addressing security vulnerabilities.
In a related development, Feven Danachew, Country Director of Wingu Africa Data Center, proposed a strategic consolidation of smaller, disparate data centers across Ethiopia into a unified hub. This centralization, she argued, would create larger, more competitive data centers with enhanced organizational capacity, ultimately bolstering the nation's information security posture and reducing associated risks.
The discussions underscore Ethiopia's proactive approach to navigating the opportunities and challenges presented by the digital age. As the nation embraces digital transformation, the parallel focus on AI development and the strengthening of its cybersecurity framework are deemed crucial for sustainable and secure progress. The ongoing East Africa Expo 2025 serves as a testament to this commitment, showcasing emerging technologies and fostering dialogue among experts and stakeholders in the region.