Image by: Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation
By Newz.Africa, Africa Desk | Addis Ababa | 26 January 2026 | World Internet Conference Addis Ababa.
Addis Ababa is set to host the World Internet Conference (WIC) this September. This marks the first time the global technology summit will be held outside China since its launch in 2012.
The announcement follows high level talks. The discussions occurred between Ethiopia’s Minister of Innovation and Technology, Belete Molla. He met with World Internet Conference Deputy Secretary General Lian Hao. Preparations are already underway. Both sides confirmed that technical groundwork has begun. Logistical groundwork is also in progress. This is to guarantee the successful delivery of the event.
World Internet Conference moves beyond China for first time to Addis Ababa
The World Internet Conference has traditionally been hosted annually in Wuzhen, China. It has grown into a major global forum for digital policy, emerging technologies, and internet governance. Staging the conference in Addis Ababa signifies a significant shift for the organisation. It positions Ethiopia as a key host on the global technology calendar.
According to Ethiopian officials, the September conference will bring together global technology companies, policymakers, academics, and senior government representatives. The WIC has over 200 major international technology institutions as its members. These include firms like Google, IBM, NVIDIA, and Alibaba.
Ethiopia positions itself as regional digital hub
Minister Belete Molla said Ethiopia has experience in hosting major international summits. This experience puts it in a strong position to deliver the conference. He added that the government is working closely with stakeholders. They aim to guarantee the event meets international standards. The goal is to strengthen Ethiopia’s profile as a destination for conference tourism.
WIC Deputy Secretary General Lian Hao confirmed that technical preparations have already begun. Collaboration between Ethiopian authorities and WIC organisers will intensify in the coming months as planning progresses.
World Internet Conference Addis Ababa: Focus on technology transfer and investment
Ethiopian media have described the decision to host the World Internet Conference as a milestone for the country’s digital economy. Officials expect the summit to create opportunities for technology transfer, policy dialogue, and expanded investment in Ethiopia’s growing technology sector.
The conference also aligns with Ethiopia’s broader Digital Ethiopia 2030 strategy. This strategy aims to expand connectivity. It focuses on developing digital skills. Additionally, it seeks to attract international partnerships in technology and innovation.
Original Reporting
What was confirmed: World Internet Conference Addis Ababa
- Addis Ababa will host the World Internet Conference in September 2026.
- This is the first time the conference will be held outside China.
- Preparatory and technical work has already begun between Ethiopian authorities and WIC organisers.
Who was contacted
- No direct comment was sought by Newz.Africa at the time of publication.
Primary artefacts
- Statements from Ethiopia’s Ministry of Innovation and Technology.
Outreach log
- No outreach conducted before publication.
Sources
- Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation
- Addis Media Network
- Ministry of Innovation and Technology Ethiopia
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