Ethiopia aims to become Africa’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) giant.

Imagine a future where robots walk the streets alongside humans, performing many of the same tasks we do today. For Ethiopian developer Getnet Assefa, this is not just a possibility but an imminent reality powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). Assefa, a scientist and co-founder of iCog Labs in Addis Ababa, played a crucial role in developing the software for Sophia, the world’s first humanoid robot, capable of displaying 60 facial expressions and engaging in conversation. Impressively, Sophia has even learned some Amharic.

iCog Labs, a key player in AI outsourcing in Africa, collaborates with global partners like Hanson Robotics in Hong Kong. Assefa proudly states, “We are at the leading edge of AI and blockchain technology, contributing to projects like SingularityNET, a decentralized AI network.” Despite their groundbreaking work, iCog’s achievements often go unrecognized, overshadowed by skepticism about Africa’s role in high-tech innovation.

Assefa believes AI could propel Ethiopia forward, especially under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s leadership. With a background in IT, Ahmed has initiated economic reforms aimed at unlocking the private sector’s potential. Improved internet access, a significant barrier in the past, is already showing progress. Assefa notes, “We used to pay exorbitant prices for minimal internet connectivity. Now, things are changing. We can afford better connections, which is a promising sign.”

iCog is also committed to nurturing future tech talent by working with schools and universities to integrate computer science into their curriculums. However, challenges such as limited internet access, lack of incentives, and insufficient support for young developers need urgent attention. Assefa emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive ecosystem for software innovators to thrive. “There’s no mechanism in Ethiopia to evaluate and support software startups. This needs to change if we want to foster innovation.”

A 2016 World Economic Forum report highlighted that AI and robotics could lead to a net loss of 5.1 million jobs over five years in 15 leading countries. While some fear AI’s impact on employment, others argue that it will create new opportunities, particularly for skilled workers like data analysts.

In summary, Ethiopia’s journey toward becoming a hub of AI innovation hinges on overcoming infrastructural and systemic challenges, coupled with leveraging the country’s burgeoning talent and visionary leadership.