Ethiopia Launches teleSign for Secure Digital Signatures

Ethiopia's teleSign Platform Revolutionizes Digital Government Services for Citizens

Ethiopia has launched teleSign, a new national digital signature platform developed by Ethio telecom in partnership with key government ministries. The system aims to simplify access to government services for citizens both inside the country and abroad.

The platform uses AI-powered video identification and liveness detection to ensure secure remote authentication. It also integrates digital payments through telebirr, making transactions smoother for users. teleSign allows Ethiopian citizens to handle legal processes online, including granting or revoking Power of Attorney (PoA) and accessing embassy services. This is particularly useful for the diaspora community, who can now manage official tasks without visiting embassies in person.

The platform digitises government workflows, reducing paperwork and speeding up service delivery. By enabling secure digital identity checks and legally recognised e-signatures, it supports Ethiopia's shift toward a fully digital government system. Officials say the technology cuts bureaucracy, improves accessibility, and promotes wider digital inclusion across the country.

Around 15 to 20 other nations, including Estonia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates, have introduced similar state-backed digital signature systems. These systems often include cross-border integration and services for citizens living abroad, much like Ethiopia's teleSign. teleSign provides a secure way for citizens to access government services from anywhere at any time. The platform's integration with digital payments and AI verification strengthens Ethiopia's move toward modern, efficient public administration. Officials expect it to play a key role in the country's broader digital transformation efforts.