AMN PLUS-June 16, 2026
The Ethiopian Cybersecurity Association and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) today held a bilateral media briefing ahead of the upcoming International Conference on Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence, which is scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa from June 24–25.
Speaking at the briefing, Birhane Beyene(PhD), President of the Ethiopian Cybersecurity Association, said the conference aims to facilitate the exchange of real-world implementation experiences, examine actual cyber incidents and response strategies, and showcase AI-powered defense tools.
He noted that the event will also focus on sharing comparative findings from pilot projects and technological assessments, identifying capacity and talent gaps, and generating practical recommendations grounded in operational realities.
“The conference is a response to the operational realities facing African institutions today. It seeks to promote collective learning, cross-border cooperation, and evidence-based action,” Birhane said.
Representing UNECA, Mr. Amos Homodza, Chief of User Experience in the Digital and Information Technology Management Section, emphasized that the gathering is envisioned as the inaugural edition of a continental conference series.
According to Mr. Homodza, the conference aims to “strengthen cyber resilience, foster collaboration, and support secure digital transformation across the continent.”
He further noted that, despite significant investments in cybersecurity capabilities and artificial intelligence, many organizations across Africa continue to face challenges related to governance, implementation, skills development, and operational resilience.
“Cybersecurity has become a strategic requirement for secure and sustainable digital growth,” he stressed.
According to the organizers, the conference will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and practitioners to address Africa’s most pressing cybersecurity challenges through the exchange of practical experiences, best practices, and innovative solutions.
The two-day event will feature 21 peer-reviewed paper presentations, 10 keynote addresses, four panel discussions, and 20 exhibitions.
By Beyene Tadesse
