By Asha Elmi - Reporter
DJIBOUTI, September 2, 2026 — Djibouti aims to become a regional hub for artificial intelligence and digital innovation in East Africa, President Ismail Omar Guelleh said Wednesday, calling for faster adoption of the technology across the economy and public administration.
Speaking at Djibouti’s first National Forum on Artificial Intelligence, Guelleh said AI could help diversify the economy, create new jobs and attract investors seeking a stable and connected base in the region.
“Artificial intelligence will irrigate every sector of our economy, every service of our Administration, every classroom in our country,” Guelleh said, comparing the technology’s potential impact to that of electricity.
The president said AI should play a central role in Vision 2035, Djibouti’s long-term development strategy aimed at building an emerging, knowledge-based economy.
“Artificial intelligence is not an additional option added to this vision: it is the most powerful accelerator,” he said.
Djibouti’s economy relies heavily on logistics and port services, but Guelleh said AI could help develop new high-value sectors and reduce dependence on traditional sources of growth.
He cited opportunities in data science, engineering, cybersecurity and technology entrepreneurship, saying the emerging sectors could generate employment for young Djiboutians.
Related articles
Guelleh also said developing the technology could strengthen Djibouti’s ability to attract foreign investment by combining its strategic location with a young, connected workforce and its position as a gateway to East Africa.
He called on businesses, researchers, universities, young people and international partners to contribute to Djibouti’s digital ambitions.
The president also backed developing and deploying AI in accordance with ethical principles, including social justice and inclusion, referring to UNESCO’s recommendation on the ethics of artificial intelligence.
The two-day forum, held under Guelleh’s patronage, brings together government officials, technology companies, researchers and other stakeholders to examine AI applications and the technology’s potential role in Djibouti’s development.
Guelleh said Djibouti had previously transformed its strategic geographic position into an advantage in maritime trade and could now seek to establish a similar role in the digital economy.
“Tomorrow, I am convinced, a digital crossroads of East Africa,” Guelleh said, outlining his ambition for Djibouti’s future position in the region.