Ethiopia has launched a major initiative to manufacture its own energy infrastructure and reduce its reliance on foreign technology through a new partnership with two Chinese power giants. 

The Ministry of Innovation and Technology announced the collaboration with China Southern Power Grid Technology and Edan Power Group, describing the move as a "paradigm shift" toward a "Made in Ethiopia" energy sector.

Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Innovation and Technology, Dr. Baysa Bedada, said that a reliable power supply is the essential foundation for the country’s digital transformation and that achieving "power sovereignty" is no longer optional. 

The deal focuses on the localization of modern power solutions, including the integration of mini-grids and renewable energy sources to meet growing domestic demand. According to Edris Adem, CEO of Edan Power Group, the strategic cooperation will accelerate the country's transition to a digitalized energy sector and enhance national security. 

Zhao Zixi of China Southern Power Grid added that the firm is already working to implement modern grid and energy storage technologies tailored to the Ethiopian environment. Beyond infrastructure, the agreement includes a commitment to manpower training and technology transfer, with the Ethiopian government promising to provide full support for domestic tech companies to learn from and work alongside their international counterparts.