Ethiopia selected to host ID4Africa 2025 Annual General Meeting

Addis Ababa, May 22, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopia has been selected to host the 2025 Annual General Meeting of the ID4Africa Movement, National ID Program confirmed in a press statement sent to FBC.

The East African nation was selected at the 2024 continental annual general gathering on Digital Identity program which was held this week in Capetown, South Africa.

Ethiopian delegation, led by Head of National ID Program Yodahe Araya-Sellasie and Ethiopian Ambassador to South Africa Muktar Kedir, has participated in the ID4Africa 2024 annual general meeting in Capetown.

In his remarks at the meeting, Yodahe expounded on the status of the implementation of Ethiopian Digital Identity program, and the lessons learned therefrom.

“Ethiopia’s selection as the host country for the 2025 AGM is a testament to our unwavering commitment as a nation to the principles and goals of the ID4Africa Movement. 2025 is an important year for Ethiopia’s achievement of developmental ambitions and digital targets. Having this conference in the vibrant, fast growing and beautiful city of Addis Ababa will undoubtedly give the momentous year more recognition,” he asserted.

“Ethiopia has made significant strides over the past few years in digital public infrastructure as well as rolling out an inclusive digital ID, transforming the digitization effort and driving socio-economic development.”

According to Yodahe, Ethiopia’s political will has been instrumental in laying the foundation for responsible digital identity deployment.

“Through proactive collaboration between the government and parliament, we have established regulatory frameworks that foster a conducive environment for digital innovation and transformation. We firmly believe that digital identity ecosystems are powerful enablers of economic development and social inclusion, and we are eager to share our experiences and learn from our international partners,” the National ID Ethiopia Head noted.

One of the key factors that will ensure a successful conference in 2025 is Ethiopian Airlines’ convenient and accessible routes and a choice of destination for both transit and outbound flights,” Yodahe reminded. “We have continually invested in improving our connectivity, making it easier for delegates from across the African continent and beyond to join us in Addis Ababa. We are fully committed to providing a seamless and efficient travel experience for all attendees.”

“2025 will be quite a unique assembly as Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, diverse traditions, with incredible tourist attractions and warm hospitality will provide an ideal color and flavor to the ID4Africa AGM. Together, we embark on a journey that will shape the future of identity management and socio-economic progress in Africa.”

Expressing his appreciation to ID4Africa for entrusting Ethiopia with this responsibility, Yodahe reiterated that his government is committed to exceeding expectations and delivering an “exceptional experience for all participants.”