Ethiopia’s Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MInT) has officially confirmed that the prestigious World Internet Conference (WIC) 2026 will be held in Addis Ababa in September 2026. This announcement marks a historic shift for the summit, which has been held annually in Wuzhen, China, since 2014, making Ethiopia the first country outside of China to host this global digital gathering.
Following high-level consultations between Ethiopia’s Minister of Innovation and Technology, Dr. Belete Molla, and the WIC Deputy Secretary-General, Mr. Liang Hao, technical preparations have officially commenced. The selection of Addis Ababa underscores Ethiopia’s rising status as a regional tech hub and its commitment to the “Digital Ethiopia 2025” strategy.
Focusing on Global Digital Inclusion
The September summit is expected to attract over 200 global tech giants, including industry leaders like Google, Nvidia, and Alibaba, alongside high-ranking government officials and internet pioneers. The discussions will center on the ethical development of Artificial Intelligence (AI), enhancing Cybersecurity, and bridging the persistent digital divide between the Global North and South.
By hosting this event, Ethiopia positions itself at the forefront of African digital diplomacy. The conference provides a unique platform for local startups and Ethiopian tech talent to engage directly with global investors, potentially unlocking millions in venture capital for the continent’s burgeoning digital economy.
