Despite the rapid global spread of the internet, Ethiopia remains one of the top five countries worldwide with the largest number of people still disconnected, a recent report by the World Bank reveals. According to the data, approximately 103.29 million Ethiopians do not have regular access to the internet, positioning Ethiopia just behind Nigeria in the ranking.

The report, authored by technology writer Alan from Increditools, details how around 2.6 billion people globally—about a third of the world’s population—are still not connected to the internet, with the majority residing in Asia and Africa. The study points out significant challenges such as infrastructure deficits, affordability, digital literacy, government policies, and political instability that contribute to these startling numbers.

In Ethiopia, the challenge is multifaceted. The rural-urban divide plays a significant role, with many remote areas lacking the necessary broadband and mobile infrastructure to facilitate internet connectivity. This issue is compounded by the high cost of internet services, which remains unaffordable for many, and a general lack of digital literacy that prevents individuals from fully leveraging the internet even when it is accessible.

“The internet has become a fundamental tool for development in the 21st century,” Alan noted in his report. “For Ethiopia, improving internet accessibility is not merely a technological advancement but a crucial step towards economic and social development.”

The Ethiopian government has recognized the importance of digital inclusivity and has been making efforts to improve connectivity across the country. These include initiatives to expand broadband access, reduce the cost of internet services, and enhance digital literacy among the population. However, much work remains to be done to bridge the digital divide.

As Alan emphasizes, closing the gap in internet equity is essential for fostering inclusive economic growth, enhancing social cohesion, and advancing overall global progress. The need for concerted efforts from governments, private sector actors, civil society organizations, and international institutions is more pressing than ever to ensure that everyone, regardless of their geographical location or economic status, can access the benefits of the digital age.

The National Bank of Ethiopia has unveiled the “National Strategy Regional Implementation” initiative aimed at reducing disparities in financial inclusion across different regions. This strategy, which marks the second financial blueprint for Ethiopia spanning from 2021 to 2025, has received approval from the Council of Ministers.

Identifying the existing gaps in inclusivity through a comprehensive survey, the strategy outlines 11 programs under the National Strategy Regional Implementation. These programs prioritize digital finance, women’s empowerment, and regions with limited access to financial services.

Recognizing the less-than-optimal outcomes of previous efforts to implement national-level strategies at the regional level, particular attention has been given to addressing deficiencies and adapting to specific regional conditions. The strategy will be rolled out in regions identified as having low levels of financial inclusion, including Gambela, Harar, and the Somali region.

According to the National Bank’s documentation, the first National Financial Inclusion Strategy, developed in 2016, concluded its implementation period in 2020. Nearly 80% of the 49 outlined actions in the strategy, encompassing the stated interventions, have been successfully completed. This has yielded substantial results, surpassing several targets set forth in the strategy.

The Ethiopian Authority of Civil Society Organizations (ACSO) has issued a new directive, Proclamation No. 986/2024, to facilitate the registration and operation of foreign-based organizations in Ethiopia. This directive allows these organizations to operate independently or collaborate with local non-governmental organizations, providing them with financial, material, and knowledge-based support.

Previously, although foreign humanitarian organizations were permitted to operate in Ethiopia, there were no specific guidelines governing their activities. This new directive aims to clarify these organizations’ legal obligations and rights within Ethiopia, enhancing the registration process and protecting their legal interests.

The directive was developed after consulting with over 50 domestic civil unions, addressing the ambiguities previously raised by foreign CSOs. It establishes a clear regulatory framework that governs the funding, management, and employment of foreign nationals within these organizations. Moreover, it specifies that foreign organizations and those established by foreign nationals in Ethiopia are prohibited from engaging in political activities, such as supporting or influencing political parties, unless explicitly allowed by law.

ACSO’s role is to oversee, support, and monitor the activities of civil society organizations operating within the country. The directive also emphasizes the importance of foreign civil society organizations in Ethiopia’s development, aiming to boost capacity-building programs that involve collaborations between foreign organizations, local NGOs, and government bodies.

Since its reorganization in 2019, ACSO has registered 2,455 new domestic and 214 foreign civil society organizations, with 1,899 existing ones being re-registered. This new directive is expected to significantly enhance the effectiveness of cooperation and development efforts by foreign and domestic civil society organizations in Ethiopia.