RRS, stakeholders discuss Digital Inclusion, Connectivity for Refugees in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, July 4, 2023 (FBC) – The “Digital Inclusion and Connectivity for Refugees and Host Communities in Ethiopia” discussion was held by the Refugees and Returnees Service of Ethiopia (RRS), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), UNHCR, relevant line ministries and partners.

UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner Kelly T. Clements, ICU Secretary General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, and Mamadou Dian Balde, Director of UNHCR Regional Bureau for the Horn, East, and Great Lakes Region, took part in the round table discussion.

RRS Director General Tesfahun Gobezay provided insights into the challenges and opportunities related to refugees and connectivity in Ethiopia. The Director General emphasized on the opportunities Ethiopia has created by establishing an enabling environment to change the lives of refugees and communities hosting them, and thus the importance of exploiting every possible opportunity to that end.

The World Bank, IFC, African Development Bank, Swiss Embassy, and other partners attended the discussion.

The government representatives and partners exchanged perspectives on collaborating towards a more inclusive and connected future for everyone, according to RRS. The conversation emphasized the significance of digital inclusion and connectivity for refugees and host communities, underscoring the need for collaboration between organizations and the government to achieve these goals.

It is also indicated that UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner Kelly T. Clements and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretary General Doreen Bogdan-Martin visited the Melkadida Refugee operation in Somali Region.