Ethiopia is moving to replace widely used global communication apps such as Gmail, Telegram, and WhatsApp across public institutions with homegrown platforms, according to the Information Network Security Administration (INSA). The effort marks a shift toward digital self-reliance, as authorities seek to strengthen national cybersecurity and bring critical services under domestic control.

Speaking to Sheger FM, Eshetu, a sales expert at INSA, said the transition is part of a broader strategy to ensure that sensitive data remains within Ethiopia’s legal framework. “This is not just a tech shift, it’s about sovereignty,” he said, underscoring the need for locally governed digital infrastructure.

Among the newly introduced tools is Ergamail, a secure government email client now in use across federal agencies. Sirkutni, developed to replace messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, is being rolled out for encrypted communication. For virtual meetings, the platform Debo is currently undergoing pilot use in public offices, aiming to replace Zoom.

INSA’s digital overhaul goes beyond communication. The agency has also developed a new electronic tax filing system now operational at the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority, as well as a modern cadastral platform for digital land registry. The tax platform eliminates paperwork and speeds up filing, while the cadastral system replaces outdated, map-based records with real-time digital property data.

These platforms are already being used within government agencies, according to INSA, and more are in the pipeline. The long-term goal: to fully replace foreign software in public service with Ethiopian-built solutions, minimizing dependency, tightening security, and laying the groundwork for a sovereign digital future. Image