Ethiopia has launched its first “smart” police stations—unmanned facilities where citizens can report crimes and concerns without ever speaking to an on-site officer. This initiative marks a significant milestone as Africa’s first fully unmanned police service, aligning with the country’s ambitious Digital Ethiopia 2030 strategy. Uniformed officers were initially on hand to guide users, but the long-term vision is for fully automated, officer-free operations. Ethiopia’s internet penetration is low, with many lacking digital literacy or reliable access, potentially excluding rural, older, or low-income populations. This unmanned model could redefine policing across Africa—if the digital divide can be bridged.

Source: Ethiopian News March 05, 2026 16:43 UTC