Ethiopia launches phase II of the African Girls Can Code Initiative
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On 28 March, more than 150 young women gathered in Addis Ababa for the launch of Phase II of the African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) in Ethiopia—marking an important step forward in advancing women’s participation in the country’s growing digital economy. The event, intentionally held during Women’s Month, also served as a moment to celebrate and recognize the role of women and girls in shaping Ethiopia’s digital future.
The event was jointly organized by UN Women and ALX Ethiopia, in partnership with the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute and the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, with the financial support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The launch brought together government representatives, development partners, private sector actors, and young women, reflecting a shared commitment for an inclusive and equitable Ethiopia’s digital transformation.
Opening the event, Ms. Jennet Kem, Country Representative, UN Women Ethiopia, underscored the importance of positioning women not only as beneficiaries of digital transformation, but as active contributors shaping innovation, particularly in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence.
Ms. Meklit Baye, Recruitment & Operations Manager, ALX Ethiopia, highlighted the transformative role of technology in expanding access to opportunities and enabling young women to participate in the digital economy. In her keynote address, H.E. Ms. Miraj Zekyi, CEO for Digital Governance, Ministry of Innovation and Technology, reaffirmed the Government of Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing an inclusive digital agenda. She emphasized that initiatives such as AGCCI are critical enablers of the country’s vision under Digital Ethiopia 2030, particularly in addressing the digital skills gap and supporting women’s meaningful participation in the sector.
H.E. Ms. Miraj also expressed appreciation for the strong partnership with UN Women and other stakeholders, highlighting that sustained collaboration is essential to creating opportunities for women and girls in technology. She further emphasized on the ongoing national efforts to support women entrepreneurs and startups through access to financing, incubation, and mentorship programmes, while underscoring the importance of ensuring safe and secure digital spaces for women and girls.
A panel discussion titled “My Professional Journey: Being a Voice in My Sector” provided a platform for reflection and inspiration, as speakers shared their personal experiences and practical insights:
- 💡 H.E. Ms. Selamawit Kassa, Minister of Tourism, spoke about her leadership journey, emphasizing resilience and the importance of seizing opportunities whenever they occur.
- 💡 Ms. Bethelehem Mulugeta, Top-Rated Freelancer (Upwork), shared practical guidance on building digital skills, navigating freelancing platforms, and accessing global markets.
- 💡 Mr. Mirafe Gabriel Marcos, General Manager, ALX Ethiopia, highlighted the transformative potential of technology in expanding economic opportunities for women, illustrating this through real-life examples of women who have transitioned into digital careers.
The discussion resonated strongly with participants, reinforcing the importance of persistence, continuous learning, and confidence in navigating traditionally male-dominated sectors.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Ms. Doris Mpoumou, UN Women’s Special Representative to the African Union and UNECA, followed by the official launch of AGCCI Phase II and a symbolic ceremony marking the kick off of implementation.
Key outcomes of the event included:
- 🚀 Official launch of AGCCI Phase II in Ethiopia
- 🌍 Increased awareness and motivation among over 150 young women to pursue opportunities in the digital economy
- 🤝 Strengthened partnerships between government, development partners, and the private sector to advance women’s digital inclusion
UN Women and the Ministry of Innovation and Technology reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring that women are not only users of digital technologies, but also creators, innovators, and leaders. As part of this commitment, partners aim to equip 500 young women with in-demand digital skills in 2026.
The launch sends a clear message: advancing Ethiopia’s digital transformation requires the full and equal participation of women and girls—whose leadership and innovation are critical to building an inclusive and sustainable Digital Ethiopia.