Belete Molla steps down from ministry role

Belete Molla has left her position as head of Ethiopia's Ministry of Innovation and Technology after five years in the role. The change is part of a broader government renewal process under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

New leader appointed for the ministry

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has appointed Frehiwot Tamiru, the former chief executive of Ethio Telecom, to lead the ministry. The Ethiopian Parliament approved her nomination on October 8 as part of the government renewal.

Tamiru's background and career

Tamiru is stepping down from her role as CEO of Ethio Telecom, a position she has held since 2018. She holds a degree in information systems from Addis Ababa University and an MBA from the Open University in the United Kingdom.

Career path in telecommunications

Tamiru initially worked at the public telecom operator, holding roles related to information systems before becoming deputy CEO in 2009. In 2012, she left the company to found her own IT firm, Doxa IT Technology, which she led until her appointment as CEO of Ethio Telecom.

Ethio Telecom's growth and diversification

Tamiru has guided Ethio Telecom in diversifying its activities beyond mobile and fixed connectivity, including developing digital financial services with Telebirr, launched in 2021, as well as cloud services, e-commerce, and business solutions.

Ethio Telecom's financial performance

For the fiscal year 2025-2026, Ethio Telecom reported revenue of 215.8 billion birrs, a 33.2% increase from the previous year, with 90.1 million customers. The company continues its "Next Horizon: Digital & Beyond" plan, aiming to expand into digital services and reach 100 million customers by 2027-2028.

Ministry's expanded role

The ministry's responsibilities extend beyond telecommunications to include emerging technologies, geospatial and space technologies, and the research and development of the digital economy. Tamiru will need to align public policies, research capabilities, and business needs beyond the commercial goals of a telecom operator.

Ministry's priorities and goals

According to the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), the ministry's priorities include using technology to improve productivity in public services, industry, research, and business development. Tamiru will need to continue expanding connectivity in underserved areas while promoting access to digital services and skill development.

Challenges of digital transformation

Digital transformation also requires creating conditions for local businesses to innovate and integrate technology into their operations. This includes fostering an environment that supports technological advancement and economic growth.