The Landscape of Artificial Intelligence Implementation in Ethiopia

This study aims to assess the landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) implementation in Ethiopia and provide recommendations for Ethiopia’s AI policy and strategy development. This is done by surveying data and computing infrastructures, robotic infrastructures, organizational level AI policy and strategies, and AI skill development in Ethiopia. Studies have been conducted employing semi-structured interviews, a physical review of infrastructures, web visits, and literature studies. The data collection involves 32 government organizations and private companies in Ethiopia. The study revealed that the data center service in Ethiopia has many opportunities to grow. There are also promising attempts by government organizations in establishing enterprise-based data centers and implementing associated policies within their organizations. The study identified that the country's lack of AI policy and strategy affects AI stakeholders to design and create short and long-term action-oriented strategies. Further, the survey revealed that the Ethiopian government started encouraging efforts in directing universities for AI skill development, digital technology implementation, and infrastructure development. This study implies that focus must be given to data, legal framework, skill and infrastructure development, research and development investment, inter-organizational cooperation, and AI startup support while creating AI policies and strategies. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, infrastructure, Ethiopia, Data center, Policy