The AI Unipod Innovation Center, established through a partnership between the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, Addis Ababa University, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the Timbuktu Initiative, was officially inaugurated in Addis Ababa. Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Temesgen Tiruneh, attended the event as guest of honor.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Prime Minister described the center as an outcome of institutional collaboration aimed at advancing innovation and technology development. He noted that the facility is intended to serve African users and support locally driven technological solutions.

He also highlighted the growing importance of data governance, stating that national sovereignty increasingly involves control over data across borders, alongside technological progress.

The AI Unipod brings together workspace facilities and technological infrastructure designed to support research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It is expected to provide resources for university students, startups, and emerging technology developers.

The inauguration was attended by senior government officials and Ahunna Eziakonwa, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Africa.