ADDIS ABABA – The Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute (EAII) stated that it is making significant strides in creating a more efficient work environment for key government offices, aimed at driving innovation and increasing productivity.
Recently, the Legal, Justice, and Democracy Affairs Standing Committee of the House of Peoples’ Representatives (HPR) conducted a site visit to observe the impactful initiatives being implemented by the EAII.
During the visit, EAII Director General Eng. Worku Gachena highlighted the institute’s commitment to enhancing skilled human resources in artificial intelligence.
A cornerstone of this effort is the development of a digital online procurement system aimed at creating a fair and transparent process for government operations, he said.
Worku highlighted several innovative software solutions developed by the EAII, including a baggage inspection system vital for detecting smuggled goods at borders, the Ethiopian electronic cargo tracking system, and an integrated freight operator’s management system.
“By using data-driven artificial intelligence, we are solving existing challenges, increasing productivity, and developing institutional capacity,” he said.
The EAII has made substantial contributions to research, publishing 45 papers in international journals across sectors such as agriculture, finance, health, and services.
The Director General noted that four research projects have been patented, and 11 additional studies are currently underway. Moreover, the EAII’s cloud data center provides free services to 30 government offices and various banking institutions, demonstrating its commitment to supporting public sector efficiency.
To address the demand for skilled manpower, the EAII is collaborating with local universities, offering PhD programs in AI at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University and Adama Science and Technology University.
Worku also underscored the importance of developing AI technology for five local languages and announced a summer training program for 211 students to foster early awareness of AI.
Chairperson of the Legal, Justice, and Democracy Affairs Standing Committee, Etsegenet Mengistu, commended the modern digital systems and software developed by the institute, stating, “These advancements play a crucial role in modernizing government operations, and we will continue to support the institute’s initiatives.”
Emphasizing the importance of AI across all sectors, she urged the institute to sustain efforts to share and transfer these innovations to further enhance Ethiopia’s development.
BY MISGANAW ASNAKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 29 MARCH 2025
