Ethiopia’s Maritime Access and Digital Transformation: PM Abiy Outlines Vision at AU and Italy Summits

ADDIS ABABA – In a landmark week for continental diplomacy, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has reinforced Ethiopia’s position as a pivotal player in Africa’s economic and technological future. Speaking at the 39th African Union (AU) Summit and the Italy-Africa Summit—held for the first time in the diplomatic capital of Addis Ababa—the Prime Minister outlined a vision centered on Ethiopia’s maritime access and digital transformation as the twin pillars of national sovereignty.

The Quest for Sea Access: A Matter of Survival

Addressing the 39th AU Summit, held under the theme of sustainable water supply and sanitation for Agenda 2063, Prime Minister Abiy delivered a firm message regarding the necessity of Ethiopia’s maritime access. He emphasized that for a nation of over 130 million people, securing diverse and reliable port outlets is not merely a preference but a fundamental requirement for sustainable growth.

“A country like Ethiopia requires multiple port outlets,” the Prime Minister stated. He argued that securing reliable maritime access through peaceful cooperation is essential for the long-term stability and economic integration of the Horn of Africa. Abiy, who has previously described the nation as a “geographical prisoner,” reiterated that Ethiopia’s 130 million citizens cannot remain sidelined from global trade, calling port access a “matter of existence”.

Water as a Catalyst for Regional Stability

The Prime Minister also addressed the strategic management of water resources, framing it as a source of peace rather than conflict. He noted that when African rivers are harnessed for mutual benefit, they become foundations for innovation and stability.

Highlighting the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Abiy explained that the project is already transforming the region by providing clean energy for domestic industries and generating foreign currency through electricity exports. “Water shapes our cities, our agriculture, our health, and our peace,” he remarked, urging African nations to adopt responsible management to drive continental prosperity.

Redefining the Africa-Europe Partnership

Parallel to the AU sessions, Addis Ababa hosted the second Italy-Africa Summit. Alongside Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, PM Abiy discussed the “Mattei Plan,” Italy’s strategic initiative aimed at energy security, sustainable development, and migration management.

The Prime Minister was clear that the future of Africa-Europe relations must move past the archaic model of dependency. “We can shape a new relationship based on mutual respect and shared prosperity,” he said, noting that the Mattei Plan aligns with Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform, particularly in renewable energy and smart agriculture.

The Role of AI in Ethiopia’s Digital Transformation

A significant portion of the Prime Minister’s address focused on Africa’s greatest demographic asset: its youth. He called for massive investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a primary engine for Ethiopia’s digital transformation, emphasizing that technology is the key to solving future challenges and creating sustainable employment.

“Investing in our youth to engage in the digital and AI sectors is key,” Abiy noted. By positioning Ethiopia as a hub for aviation, logistics, and digital innovation, the Prime Minister signaled that the country is ready to bridge the gap between Africa and the global tech economy.

A New Era of Equality

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni echoed these sentiments, stating that holding the summit in Addis Ababa underscores Italy’s commitment to an “equal partnership”. She emphasized that the Mattei Plan is designed to support African nations in harvesting their own resources rather than creating new forms of dependency.

The summits concluded with a shared focus on linking Africa and Europe through energy projects and curbing illegal migration by creating tangible economic opportunities. As the nation navigates its path toward becoming a middle-income power, the progress of Ethiopia’s maritime access and digital transformation remains the defining roadmap for the administration.