Ethiopia's journey towards realizing the Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy is not just a plan; it's a testament to resilience and innovation. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, speaking at a panel discussion held at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, reflected on the remarkable progress made in implementing the strategy's mid-term objectives.
"When we embarked on the Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy, our nation faced significant financial hurdles," Prime Minister Abiy recounted. "With a debt to GDP ratio hovering around 60 percent, we grappled with challenges in financing critical endeavors such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which demanded a staggering $1 billion USD investment."
In the face of these obstacles, Ethiopia didn't falter; it adapted. Prime Minister Abiy underscored the necessity of indigenous solutions, born from the fusion of local insights and global best practices. Thus, the Homegrown Economic Reform and the Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy were conceived, marking a pivotal shift towards self-reliance and innovation.
Central to the strategy's success are its enablers, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized. "A reliable energy supply, robust data infrastructure, and fortified cyber-security form the bedrock of our digitization journey," he declared. "These pillars not only propel technological advancement but also safeguard our nation's digital future."
Ethiopia's commitment to laying a solid foundation for technological progress is unwavering. Prime Minister Abiy highlighted the strides made in fortifying legal frameworks, strategic planning, and institutional development. From expanding telecom infrastructure to fostering the growth of AI institutions, every step is meticulously designed to surmount challenges and unlock opportunities.
"By fortifying these foundations and nurturing our enablers, we ensure that Ethiopia's digitization yields maximum dividends for our citizens," Prime Minister Abiy asserted, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the nation's digital transformation.
As a testament to Ethiopia's dedication, Prime Minister Abiy announced the imminent establishment of a national council tasked with overseeing the Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy's implementation. Led by Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh and comprising representatives from various sectors, this council symbolizes Ethiopia's united front towards a digitally empowered future.
Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Molla echoed this sentiment, stressing the strategy's alignment with Ethiopia's broader national objectives. "Our focus extends beyond mere digitization; it encompasses job creation, economic growth, and global competitiveness," Minister Belete remarked.