Ethiopia reports progress in innovation and technology sector performance

By:  Robert Kwaku Annor

The Ministry of Innovation and Technology in Ethiopia says it has recorded improved performance following the implementation of problem-solving research and development initiatives across the sector.

The report was presented by Minister of Innovation and Technology Belete Mola during the 22nd regular meeting of the House of Peoples’ Representatives, where lawmakers are reviewing the ministry’s implementation report for the 2018 fiscal year.

According to the minister, the ministry achieved notable results within nine months through the execution of applied research activities aimed at addressing practical development challenges.

He stated that science, technology and innovation remain central to addressing global and national development priorities, including Ethiopia’s progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the 2063 African Union Agenda.

The report highlighted efforts to strengthen institutional capacity through training programmes designed to improve skills and technical knowledge among personnel within the innovation ecosystem.

It also noted ongoing reforms to modernise institutional processes through technology adoption, which the ministry said have yielded positive outcomes.

In the reporting period, 1,714 research and innovation studies were conducted, alongside 25 geospatial studies aimed at supporting data-driven decision-making.

The ministry further reported that 6,424 jobs were created across startup initiatives over the past nine months, reflecting the growing role of innovation-driven enterprises in employment creation.

Officials say the continued focus on research-led development is expected to strengthen Ethiopia’s innovation ecosystem and support broader economic transformation objectives.