Apple Inc., the California-based global technology giant, is taking a major step toward expanding its market presence in East Africa. In high-level delegate discussions held in Addis Ababa on July 2, 2026, representatives from the technology company engaged in strategic talks with Ethiopian government officials—a significant development that could sustainably transform the country’s growing digital landscape.
Founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, Apple has grown from a small computer operation started in a garage into a global company with a market valuation approaching $4 trillion.
During the discussions held between the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MinT), the Ethiopian Investment Commission, and Ali Kanafer, Apple’s Director of Trade Policy and Government Affairs for Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), the focus was placed on aligning Ethiopia’s digital goals with Apple’s global strategy.
The Minister of Innovation and Technology, Belete Molla, stated that the “Digital Ethiopia 2025” strategy has achieved successful results in modernizing the country’s payment systems and creating an inclusive digital economy. Looking ahead, he informed the Apple delegation of the government’s ambitious plans to focus on the “Digital Ethiopia 2030” strategy, emphasizing their commitment to facilitating digital transformation and creating favorable conditions for global technology companies.
Known for iconic hardware products such as the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, as well as an extensive suite of digital services like the App Store, Apple Music, and iCloud, Apple continues to redefine how humanity interacts with technology.
Similarly, the Deputy Commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission, Dagato Kumbe, who also held discussions with the company’s representative, emphasized the country’s commitment to building a robust digital economy.
Highlighting the opening of Ethiopia’s telecom and trade sectors to foreign companies, as well as the ongoing construction of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Park, the Commission extended an invitation for Apple to invest in Ethiopia.
For his part, Ali Kanafer expressed his admiration for the rapid policy reforms Ethiopia is undertaking and the strength of its digital ecosystem. Confirming Apple’s deep interest in Ethiopia’s market potential, Kanafer requested the necessary government support and the facilitation of partnerships with local stakeholders to streamline the company’s entry into the country.
