Local Innovation Drives Socio-Economic Progress: Minister Belete.

Addis Ababa: Ethiopia’s Minister of Innovation and Technology, Belete Molla, emphasizes the significance of leveraging local technological capabilities for socio-economic transformation and fostering international collaborations. Minister Belete highlighted this during the inauguration of the first-ever Greater Fair for Endogenous Technology organized by the Organization of Southern Cooperation (OSC) and the Ministry.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the minister stressed that this approach is a crucial driver of the country’s socio-economic progress. “This is a pivotal moment for the Global South,” he stated at the opening of the fair. The two-day event at the Science Museum is showcasing 41 innovative startups and technologies from 14 countries, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in driving socio-economic change and nurturing a culture of innovation.

Minister Belete pointed out Ethiopia’s practical experience with endogenous innovation, emphasizing the ministry’s ongoing efforts to cultiva
te an ecosystem that supports homegrown ideas. He acknowledged the critical role of the partnership with OSC in advancing this mission. “Our partnership with the OSC has opened new frontiers, focusing on the aspirations and needs of our communities,” Belete noted, stressing the potential of technological innovation to uplift the Global South.

He also underscored the need to harness local knowledge to create sustainable, inclusive solutions, urging attendees to engage in discussions, explore partnerships, and contribute to building a vibrant innovation ecosystem. “Let’s dare, together, to create a future defined by inclusion, innovation, and shared prosperity,” Belete added.

Reflecting on the recent OSC General Assembly, Secretary-General Manssour Bin Mussallam highlighted the adoption of a common program for the next two years, with a focus on open-source software, South-South technology transfers, and fostering environments for the development of endogenous technology. “Our program recognizes that bridging
the tech divide goes beyond donations or costly imports. We must build technologies that are adaptable to our needs and integrated into our systems,” he explained.

The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of South-South cooperation and resource mobilization in stimulating youth innovation and economic development. He stated that endogenous technologies, rooted in local needs and capabilities, align well with collective goals and strategies. The fair exemplifies the potential of these technologies to drive socio-economic transformation, particularly in South-South countries.