Ethiopia is set to embark on an ambitious journey towards integrating cutting-edge technologies into its economic infrastructure. Aiming to become a global digital economy leader, the country plans to establish a $250 million bitcoin mining and AI data center led by the Russian bitcoin mining company BitCluster.
The initiative, known as Project Mano, is a significant milestone in Ethiopia's technological advancement. It involves the construction of a 120-megawatt facility in Addis Ababa, strategically located near the Kilinto high-voltage substation to leverage the country's vast renewable energy resources, particularly hydroelectric power from the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
With the capacity to support over 34,000 miners, this facility will contribute approximately 1.2% of the total bitcoin network hash rate. The emphasis on renewable energy in the mining sector highlights a shift towards sustainable practices and geographic diversification of mining operations.
This investment underscores Ethiopia's broader aspirations to become a hub for technological innovation and sustainable development. By harnessing its renewable energy potential, the country aims to attract global attention and investment in its burgeoning tech sector, creating new opportunities for employment and economic growth.
The choice of Ethiopia as a site for this investment reflects a growing trend among bitcoin miners to seek out locations that offer cost-effective and sustainable energy solutions and a welcoming regulatory environment. The integration of bitcoin mining into Ethiopia's economy could potentially add $2 to $4 billion annually to its GDP, significantly boosting the nation's economy and positioning it as a leader in the clean energy-driven future of bitcoin mining.
This strategic move signifies Ethiopia's readiness to embrace the opportunities presented by blockchain technology and AI. As Project Mano unfolds, it is poised to draw global attention to Ethiopia's tech industry and its commitment to sustainable and innovative economic development. The future looks bright as Ethiopia takes steps towards becoming a key player in the digital economy landscape.
