Inaugural Greater Southern Fair for Endogenous Technology kicks off in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, December 2, 2024 (FBC) – The Greater South Fair for Endogenous Technologies 2024 (GreSFET), a biennial international fair for endogenous technologies, kicked off today at the National Science Museum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Organized by the Ministry of Innovation & Technology of Ethiopia (MInT) and Organization of Southern Cooperation (OSC), the tech fair is being convened in the Ethiopian capital to promote endogenous technologies, foster strategic partnerships, and align local innovations with global platforms.

GreSFET also aims to enhance the digital ecosystem and facilitate policy articulation for endogenous technology development. The objectives of this inaugural edition of GreSFET are to promote endogenous technologies by showcasing local solutions and innovations; enhance strategic partnerships by encouraging collaboration between innovators, developers, and industries; promote Global-Local technology pairing; and promote innovation environment by fostering an innovative ecosystem through policy and strategy enhancement.

This international fair expected to benefit technology developers, scientists, education institutions, civil society, and public and private sector actors from OSC Member States and the wider Global South.

The fair features more than 40 startups and technology innovators from the member states and is expected to last for two days starting today.

The tech fair was inaugurated by Minister of MInT Mr. Belete Molla and Secretary General of OSC Sheikh Mansour bin Musallam in the presence of representatives of OSC member states and other invited guests.

Delivering a keynote speech during the opening session, Belete said that Ethiopia has placed due emphasis on technology and innovation to accelerate the homegrown economic reform agenda.

He said that Ethiopia has started to benefit from the development of innovative projects that address economic and social issues by encouraging innovative startups.

“GreSFET is not just a showcase; it is a declaration of what is possible when we come together to innovate for our shared future. Rooted in the realities of our people, these technologies bridge tradition and modernity, offering a sustainable and inclusive blueprint for tomorrow,” he noted.

For his part, Sheikh Mansour bin Musallam has acknowledged Ethiopia’s strides on innovation and the utilization of technology. He also indicated member countries should continue to strengthen their cooperation to promote the use of innovation and technology.

“By providing visibility to startups, innovators, and entrepreneurs, GreSFET fosters best practice exchange and mutual learning among youth and nations, addressing technological development challenges in resource-scarce contexts. It also acts as a catalyst for economies of scale, empowering entrepreneurs and students to become drivers of technological advancement,” the Director-General underscored.