ADDIS ABABA, April 23 (Xinhua) -- The Ethiopian government on Thursday said Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's recent appointment as the African Union (AU) Champion for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Health is a recognition of his leadership and the country's growing role in advancing AI and innovation across the continent.
Appointing Abiy for his new continental duty, the AU underscored that his "leadership in promoting digital transformation and emerging technologies has helped position AI as a key tool for sovereignty, efficiency, and inclusive growth in Africa," the Ethiopian Prime Minister's Office said in a statement issued Thursday.
The 55-member continental organization highlighted that Abiy's continued advocacy for strategic autonomy and technological empowerment "will be instrumental in positioning Africa as a global leader in responsible and equitable AI adoption."
In recent years, the East African country has witnessed notable progress in digitization and AI, with some national initiatives launched under Abiy's leadership, including a university specializing in AI.
The Ethiopian Prime Minister's Office highlighted that the expansion of digital infrastructure, the rollout of e-government services, investments in innovation ecosystems, the establishment of an AI institute, and the development of a national AI strategy have laid "a strong foundation for transformation."
Abiy has recently announced the country's plan to establish a dedicated AI university, which is expected to strengthen research, talent development, and continental collaboration in emerging technologies.
Last week, African ministers at the AU Peace and Security Council high-level ministerial session welcomed Abiy's appointment. They noted that the decision highlighted the role of innovation in advancing peace and sustainable development across the continent. ■
