With over 120 million inhabitants, Ethiopia has an immense digital potential.

The country is actively working to expand internet access, modernize its infrastructure, and embrace innovative technological solutions.

Ethiopia is working to accelerate internet development and bridge the digital divide, Minister of Innovation and Technology Belete Molla said on Monday. Speaking at the opening of the Internet Development Conference (IDC), Molla emphasized the government's commitment to building an inclusive and dynamic digital ecosystem for all citizens.

The Digital Ethiopia 2030 strategy will serve as a roadmap for this effort, guiding the modernization of internet infrastructure, raising digital literacy awareness, and promoting responsible technology use. The government also aims to collaborate closely with member countries of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to improve connectivity in remote areas and ensure equitable and secure internet access.

Ethiopia has made significant progress in recent years. 4G coverage now reaches 34.8% of the population, and 5G services are available in 14 cities. The country currently boasts 80.5 million mobile subscribers and 45 million broadband users. Innovative solutions like Telebirr, a mobile payment service with 51.54 million users, demonstrate the potential of digital technology to drive financial inclusion and transform economic transactions.

The GSMA's Digital Economy Ethiopia Report forecasts further growth in connectivity, with more than 50 million Ethiopians expected to be connected to mobile internet by 2028, nearly double the current figure. This increased connectivity could contribute approximately $2.5 billion to the agricultural sector and $2 billion to the manufacturing industry by 2028.

These advancements are expected to solidify Ethiopia's role as a driver of digital transformation within the IGAD region while delivering sustainable economic and social benefits for its citizens.

By Samira Njoya,

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji