ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Africa must lead the development of emerging technologies through bold, inclusive policies and strategic investment in digital skills, as he addressed the second day of the Ethiopian Tech Expo 2025.

“Technology without inclusion is a complexity without purpose,” Abiy said Saturday during remarks at the “AI for Africa” program, held under the theme “Leveraging AI for Africa’s Prosperity and Collaboration.”

He described artificial intelligence as a transformative force that is already reshaping sectors across the continent, urging African nations to adopt forward-looking regulations and invest in local talent to ensure they are not left behind in the global tech shift.

Ethiopia’s approach includes initiatives such as the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, a national Digital ID system and the “Five Million Coders” training program aimed at building a digitally skilled workforce.

Abiy said these efforts are part of a broader strategy to prepare the country for a rapidly changing global economy.

The three-day expo, which runs through May 18, brings together government leaders, tech entrepreneurs and investors from across Africa to promote regional collaboration and showcase digital innovation in education, finance, health and governance.

Organizers say the event is designed to highlight Africa’s potential in shaping technology to serve its development goals, in alignment with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

There have been growing calls across the continent for Africa to avoid falling behind as the world accelerates development and adoption of artificial intelligence technologies.

Many countries, including Ethiopia, Rwanda, Togo, Egypt, Kenya and South Africa, have taken proactive steps to integrate artificial intelligence into national development plans, education, and public services.