The science, technology, and innovation sector has become one of the key pillars of Ethiopia’s economic development, especially following the 2018 national reform. With the goal of transforming its economy and building a prosperous country, Ethiopia is placing a strong emphasis on technology transfer, local technological innovations, and scientific research. Similarly, accelerating the development of digital technology has become a top priority in recent years. Recognizing the role of technology and innovation in socio-economic development, numerous activities and measures were implemented in 2024.
Adopting new policies and strategies, reforming existing policies and strategies, investing in technology diplomacy, organizing national and international technology exhibitions, launching new initiatives such as the 5 million Ethio Coders program, and making Ethio Telecom stake available to the public were among the top technological developments in 2024.
-The exposing to view of technology, innovation and startup products
Organized by the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MInT), Ethiopia has hosted national, continental, and international technology, startup, and innovation-related exhibitions. Additionally, national science and technology, robotics, and related fairs were organized at the national level.
One of the pioneering annual events in 2024 was the Science, Technology, Research, Innovation, Digitalization, and Entrepreneurship (STRIDE Ethiopia) expo, aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in the sector. The expo took place from May 18 to 26 at the Science Museum in Addis Ababa, under the theme “Science Unlocks, Technology Connects, Innovation Drives.”
In 2024, the National Robotics Competition, National Students Science and Engineering Fair, and the 8th National Health Innovation and Quality Fair were among the national exhibitions organized.
-The announcement of flight-ready homemade aircraft, Tsehay 2
On November 29th, the Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) announced the successful production of their own aircraft, named Tsehay 2.0, which is now flight-ready. This achievement was celebrated during the Air Force’s 89th founding anniversary, marking a significant milestone in their progress. This demonstrates the EAF’s commitment to achieving their vision of becoming the largest air force in Africa by 2030.
-The Launch of 5 Million Ethio Coder’s Initiative
On July 23rd, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) launched the national coder’s initiative, the 5 Million Ethio Coders Program, to provide online coding training for five million Ethiopian youths within three years. The initiative was a joint effort with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and is currently ongoing. The training aims to equip the younger generation with coding skills and promote digital literacy. Web programming, Android development, data science, and AI are among the training courses included in the 5 Million Coders Program.
Two weeks ago, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MInT) revealed that, to date, approximately 360,000 youths are participating in the training nationwide. MInT is closely monitoring the program by evaluating performances weekly. Since the program’s inception in late July, around 360,000 youths have registered for the training, with over 78,000 already completing their training and receiving certifications. Campaigns are ongoing to raise awareness among the younger generation about the free online training, with plans to reach up to seven million youths by the end of the program.
– Ethio Telecom put on sale 10% of its share
In October 2024, the giant telecom operator in Ethiopia, Ethio Telecom, announced that it would be offering 100 million ordinary shares, equivalent to 10% of the company’s capital, to the public for the first time in its over 130 years of service. The company currently has more than 79 million telecom subscribers in Ethiopia.
Ethio Telecom initiated the first Ethiopian capital market by selling a 10% ownership stake to Ethiopians, transitioning from a state-owned enterprise to a share company. Ethio Telecom was officially registered as a Share Company on June 21, 2024, in accordance with the Ethiopian Commercial Code, as stated by the telecom operator.
In this initial public sale of 100 million ordinary shares of Ethio Telecom, each valued at 300 birr, interested individuals can purchase shares. According to Ethio Telecom, any Ethiopian investor who meets the requirements set by the Ethiopian Capital Markets Authority can buy ordinary shares, starting from a minimum of 9,900 birr or 33 shares, up to a maximum of 999,900 birr or 3,333 shares. Ethio Telecom announced that the share sale will take place from October 16, 2024, to January 3, 2025. Citizens can acquire shares through Ethio Telecom’s telebirr SuperApp.
BY DARGIE KAHSAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 27 DECEMBER 2024
