Ethiopian AI Institute partners with Unified Bank and ALX to boost startup ecosystem

By:  Robert Kwaku Annor

The Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute has entered into strategic partnerships with Unified Bank and ALX Ethiopia aimed at strengthening the country’s startup ecosystem and accelerating workforce development in the technology sector.

The agreements were formalised through the signing of memorandums of understanding designed to support technology-driven startups and expand capacity-building initiatives across Ethiopia’s emerging artificial intelligence landscape.

Director General of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, Dr. Werku Gachena, said the collaboration reflects the importance of engaging private sector institutions in efforts to advance the country’s technology ecosystem. He noted that the institute is working toward establishing a unique AI Startup Centre in Africa while also intensifying training programmes to address skills gaps in the sector.

Chief Executive Officer of Unified Bank, Mr. Mulugeta, described the initiative as a positive step that will not only strengthen the bank’s technological capabilities but also enhance institutional efficiency through innovation-driven collaboration.

CEO of ALX Ethiopia, Gebremarkos, said the partnership builds on ongoing efforts to develop Ethiopia’s startup ecosystem, adding that ALX will contribute its global experience in talent development and entrepreneurship to support local innovation.

The collaboration is expected to provide both financial and technical support to startups while also contributing to the development of a globally competitive digital workforce in Ethiopia. Officials say the initiative will play a significant role in advancing artificial intelligence innovation and strengthening the country’s position in the regional technology ecosystem.