In a landmark move to accelerate the country's digital transformation, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched the "Digital Ethiopia 2030" strategy, positioning it as a cornerstone of Ethiopia's long-term national development.

The strategy: aligns with the African Union's Digital Transformation Strategy (2020–2030), the AU's Continental AI Strategy (2024), and the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement's (AfCFTA) Digital Trade Protocol.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed lauded the new roadmap as an evolution of the successful Digital Ethiopia 2025 initiative.

He noted that the earlier strategy delivered the intended goals to a nearly full extent.

Digital Ethiopia 2025 was particularly impressive, delivering notable results by building essential digital infrastructure and enacting key reforms.

Accordingly, the number of telecom service users in Ethiopia has soared to 97 million, and the number of internet users has reached 57 million.

The digital payment system has gained traction in the economy, and many government services have become digitalized, making them more efficient.

Digital Ethiopia 2030 will harness these foundations to achieve even greater impact, PM Abiy noted.

He said that at its heart, the strategy prioritizes three interconnected pillars: expanding seamless access to digital services for all citizens, ensuring equitable opportunities in the digital economy, and cultivating unwavering trust between the public and institutions in digital systems.

"Digital Ethiopia 2030" strategy plans to increase the number of mobile users to 128 million and ensure a 100% rollout of 5G. The strategy also aims to increase the share of digital payments to GDP sevenfold from its current status.

The Premier expressed unwavering optimism that successful implementation would unlock jobs opportunities, drive sustainable growth, and bolster Ethiopia's digital sovereignty.

To realize these ambitions, the government pledged robust investments in reliable electricity, nationwide connectivity, and skills training, he remarked.

The premier noted that the government's new strategy will focus on public digital infrastructure through three key initiatives: upgrading the Fayda national digital ID system, enhancing digital payments, and strengthening AI-driven data exchange platforms.

On the other hand, highlighting the critical role of cyber security, PM Abiy stated firmly: "Progress without security is no progress at all."

He called for strengthened cybersecurity measures to protect data, systems, and users, urging government agencies and the private sector to collaborate closely.

In a direct appeal to innovators, the Prime Minister committed to supporting startups and encouraged entrepreneurs to hone their leadership skills.

PM Abiy mentioned that the government officials should reduce bureaucratic hurdles instead of strengthening strategic leadership and oversight capacity.

He also urged citizens to leverage their talents responsibly in this digital era.