For an explanation of how to read this resource, please refer to the guide at the bottom.
AI Regulation
In June 2024, Ethiopia’s Council of Ministers approved an AI policy (the “AI Policy”).1
Definitions of AI
In the absence of publicly available official instruments on AI regulation in the country, including the AI Policy, we have not verified the existence of any definitions of AI.
Core Principles
In the absence of publicly available official instruments on AI regulation in the country, we have not verified the existence of any core AI principles.
Public Consultations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of invitations for public input on AI governance in the country. However, it is reported that development of the AI Policy was a collaborative effort with contributions from the Ethiopian Institute of Artificial Intelligence, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, Addis Ababa University's Policy Research Institute, private sector representatives, and other participants.2
Existing Legal Framework
A non-exhaustive list of regulations that might affect AI in the country includes:
- Constitution of Ethiopia3
- Digital Ethiopia 20254
- Communications Service Proclamation (Proclamation No. 1148/2019)5
- Electronic Transactions Proclamation (Proclamation No. 1205/2020)6
- Personal Data Protection Proclamation (Proclamation No. 1321/2024)7
- Computer Crime Proclamation (Proclamation No. 958/2016)8
- Trade Competition and Consumers Protection Proclamation (Proclamation No. 813/2013)9
Human Rights
The UDHR was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1948. Its principles are considered universal and applicable to all UN member states. As a member of the UN, Ethiopia has committed to upholding the principles of the UDHR. The Constitution of Ethiopia includes provisions that protect fundamental human rights.10 Article 26 guarantees the right to privacy (inviolability of notes and correspondence, including postal letters, and communications by means of telephone, telecommunications and electronic devices). Other protections include the rights to life (Articles 14 and 15), dignity (Article 24), equality and non-discrimination (Article 25), and freedom of expression (Article 29). Additionally, the protection of economic, social and cultural rights includes protections for engagement in economic activity, occupations and professions, as well as for public health, education and other services (Article 41). Ethiopia has ratified several key international human rights instruments, including the ACHPR, ICCPR, and ICESCR. However, the country has not signed or ratified the Malabo Convention.
Regulators
A non-exhaustive list of regulators that might impact AI in the country includes:
- Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MInT)11
- Ethiopian Communications Authority (ECA)12
- Information Network Security Agency (INSA)13
- Institute of Ethiopian Standards (IES)14
- Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC)15
R&D and Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives
The Artificial Intelligence Institute (AII) is a national body with several mandates, including to develop research-based AI products and services.16 Originally named the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Center (EAIC), its current name was adopted in 2021.17 Its numerous projects span the areas of health, agriculture, language, and finance, among others.18
In 2024, the government of Ethiopia and EON Reality established a partnership to create a $7.5 million Spatial AI Center to deploy a platform with 115,000 licenses and capacity for 500,000 users.19 The initiative aims to develop 10,000 Ethiopia-specific courses and establish an AI academy.20 The project also plans to create an AI innovation hub.21
Also in 2024, AII announced a partnership with the Harbin Institute of Technology, to establish the China-Ethiopia Digital Agriculture Laboratory.22
Professional/Industry Associations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of professional or industry associations dedicated to AI in the country.
Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of advisory bodies or expert groups dedicated to AI in the country.
Guide
- AI Regulation: The term "regulation", as used in this resource, encompasses measures ranging from binding laws to national AI policies and strategies, government proposals, advisory guidelines, and industry standards that address AI systems and their implications.
- Existing Legal Framework: This section outlines the relevant legal framework, excluding any AI-specific regulations presented in the initial section.
- Human Rights: The following terms have the stated meanings: "ACHPR" means the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, "ICCPR" means the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, "ICESCR" means the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, "Malabo Convention" means the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, "UDHR" means the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and "UN" means the United Nations. Any reference to an “Article” or “Section” of the Constitution is to the version of the Constitution referenced herein.
- Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups: This section excludes legislative and parliamentary committees.
