• Ethiopia launches a smart, queue-free police station in Addis Ababa.

• Citizens access services 24/7 through digital kiosks, reducing waiting times and paperwork.

• Authorities deploy AI and centralized data systems to improve efficiency and transparency.

Ethiopian authorities inaugurated a smart police station in Addis Ababa designed to provide simplified, fast, and continuous access to public services. The Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) reported the development on Sunday, March 22.

At this next-generation facility, users interact directly with self-service digital kiosks. They use interactive screens and remote video assistance to file complaints, submit documents, or pay fines without visiting a traditional counter.

The system operates 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. As a result, it removes time constraints commonly associated with public administration services.

“This innovation significantly improves the quality of service offered to citizens and strengthens the judicial system and police services,” said Andnet Sisay, head of the technology department at the federal police.

The system relies on technologies such as artificial intelligence and centralized data management. Consequently, it reduces processing times and limits human errors linked to manual procedures.

For citizens, the experience becomes more streamlined. They face shorter waiting times, reduced paperwork, and more direct interaction with public services.

Beyond efficiency gains, the transformation is reshaping the relationship between users and the administration. By reducing physical interactions, the system also limits informal practices and strengthens service transparency.

The station operates with reduced on-site staff, while officers provide remote support to ensure continuous case monitoring. Authorities designed the project as a pilot, and they could expand the model to other cities across Ethiopia.

This article was initially published in French by Adoni Conrad Quenum

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum