In a bold stride toward digital transformation, Ethiopia is fast becoming Africa’s next tech powerhouse, thanks to the ambitious 5 Million Coders Initiative, a strategic partnership with the United Arab Emirates.

Launched just a year ago, the initiative is not only reshaping the nation’s digital landscape but also opening unprecedented global job opportunities for Ethiopian youth. Over 688,000 individuals have enrolled, with more than 269,000 already certified, a major step toward bridging the country’s digital skills gap.

“This program is a game-changer,” said Seyoum Mengesha, Lead Executive Officer for Digital Economic Development at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology. “Despite infrastructural challenges, the Ministry is working closely with Ethio Telecom to expand access and enable more citizens, including those in remote areas, to participate in the training.”

The initiative aims to empower five million Ethiopians with in-demand coding and tech skills. Already, its impact is rippling across sectors. Berhanu Aleka, Project Manager at the Ministry of Labor and Skills, revealed that over 95,000 outsourced digital jobs have been secured through the program. “Half of these roles are already filled by certified participants, many of whom are now earning upwards of $2,000 per month,” he added.

The government is also working with Ethio Telecom and educational institutions to build digital capacity at all levels. “We are also creating conducive environments in schools to ensure young people are not left behind,” Seyoum said. 

For participants like Yosef Getachew, the program offers more than technical know-how; it brings hope. “The skill training will make life easier for many of us,” he said.

With Ethiopia’s youthful population, the initiative is seen as a cornerstone for driving inclusive development, boosting foreign income, and strengthening the country’s competitiveness on the global digital stage.

The road ahead may be long, but momentum is strong. And with nearly 40% of early milestones already achieved, Ethiopia’s digital future looks brighter than ever.