Policy Advisor Highlights Need for Private Sector’s Role in Ethiopia’s Digital Economy

ADDIS ABABA – In an effort to accelerate Ethiopia’s digital transformation, Costantinos Berhutesfa, a prominent economist and policy advisor, has underscored the importance of increased private sector participation. His comments come at a time when Ethiopia is actively implementing its ambitious “Digital Ethiopia 2025” strategy.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, Costantinos Berhutesfa emphasized the global shift towards digital economies and the critical role Ethiopia must play in this transformation. He pointed out that collaboration between the government, private sector, and educational institutions, particularly Universities of Science and Technology, is essential for achieving the goals of the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy. He praised the telecom sector’s recent advancements, notably the expansion of 5G networks, which provide a strong foundation for digitalization efforts.

Costantinos also highlighted the need for reliable energy sources and conducive financial policies that include the establishment of a robust capital market and enhanced incentives for foreign investment. Such measures, he suggested, would enable Ethiopian youth to engage more actively in the economy through innovative and creative projects.

The economist reiterated that realizing a comprehensive digital economy involves integrating effective e-government systems within the governmental framework. This integration is expected to spur advancements across e-commerce, research, and education sectors. Costantinos called for concerted efforts to ensure the successful implementation of the Digital Ethiopia strategy, aiming for a transformative impact on the country’s technological landscape and its younger generation.