Addis Ababa – Ethiopia illuminated its aspirations in technology and national development with a breathtaking drone light show, the largest of its kind in Africa. The display, witnessed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, featured 1,500 synchronized drones painting vivid images in the night sky above the Addis Ababa International Convention Center (AAICC). The event served as the opening spectacle for the Ethiopian Technology Expo (ETEX) 2025.

Beyond mere entertainment, the drone show was designed to symbolize Ethiopia's rapid advancement in the digital era and its commitment to African integration. The drones depicted themes ranging from Ethiopia's historical legacy in computational thinking to its dedication to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. According to the Ethiopian Embassy in Washington, D.C., the display represented the nation's "leap into the digital era," heralding a future where technology plays a pivotal role in national progress.

ETEX 2025, organized by the Information Network Security Administration (INSA) and the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute (EAII), aims to highlight Ethiopia's potential as a technological hub. The expo includes discussions and showcases in areas such as cybersecurity, AI, fintech, smart cities, and technology education. The EAII is actively pursuing partnerships with the private sector to leverage AI for societal benefit, addressing both technological and infrastructural gaps to enhance Ethiopia's competitive standing in the field. Over 10,000 participants are expected to attend the three-day expo, solidifying its place as a key event in Africa's technology landscape.