UNDP partners with Ethiopia to advance AI innovation
Date: 2025-07-10
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has pledged strategic collaboration with Ethiopia's Artificial Intelligence Institute (EAII) to accelerate AI-driven solutions for sustainable development. The partnership was formalized during a high-level visit by UNDP Ethiopia Deputy Resident Representative, H.E. Charu Bist to EAII headquarters, where she commended Ethiopia's leadership in harnessing artificial intelligence for socioeconomic transformation.
EAII Director
General, Dr. Worku Gachena showcased the institute's pioneering work in
deploying AI across priority sectors including agriculture, healthcare, and
public services. "This partnership with UNDP will amplify our capacity to
develop ethical, homegrown AI solutions tailored to Ethiopia's development
needs," stated Dr. Gachena during the meeting.
H.E. Bist
announced concrete support measures including the establishment of an AI
innovation hub at EAII's Startup Center, which will serve as a nexus for
researchers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. The hub will leverage UNDP's
global network of AI experts while focusing on local capacity building and
knowledge transfer.
"Ethiopia's
strategic focus on AI presents a model for other developing nations," remarked H.E. Bist, highlighting UNDP's commitment to regular
engagement through technical assistance and policy advisory support. The
collaboration aligns with Ethiopia's Digital Transformation Strategy 2025 and
the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in bridging technological
divides.
This
partnership marks a significant step in positioning Ethiopia as East Africa's
AI innovation leader while ensuring emerging technologies address pressing
development challenges through inclusive, human-centered design. Both
institutions plan to convene working groups in coming weeks to operationalize
joint initiatives in skills development, responsible AI governance, and
scalable pilot projects.
By: Kanto Kai Okanta
