Ethiopia is accelerating its efforts to harness artificial intelligence and boost homegrown technology, signaling a shift towards digital sovereignty. The government recently launched SkyWin Aeronautics Industry, a state-backed company focused on developing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for both civilian and defense purposes. This move aligns with Ethiopia’s growing interest in emerging technologies, including AI, drone tech, and digital identity systems.
The initiative reflects a broader ambition to localize technology solutions, improve public service delivery, and reduce dependency on foreign providers. With its Fayda digital ID program gaining traction, Ethiopia aims to integrate AI into national planning, agriculture, and security operations in the near future.
Meanwhile, South Africa is making significant progress in clearing regulatory barriers for Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service. After months of negotiation, the government is exploring flexible compliance options under its Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) policy, which typically requires a 30% local ownership stake in foreign enterprises.
To meet these requirements, Starlink has proposed an equity equivalence model, suggesting infrastructure investments and digital access programs in underserved communities. This compromise could pave the way for Starlink’s official rollout, bringing high-speed satellite internet to remote and rural areas across the country.
As both nations chart their tech futures, Ethiopia is betting on building its own systems from the ground up, while South Africa weighs the benefits of foreign partnerships that align with its socio-economic goals.
