**"Shifting Gears in Policing: Ethiopia's AI-Powered Smart Police Service"** In a bold move that could redefine public safety in Africa, Ethiopia has launched what it claims is the continent's first fully unmanned smart police service. The innovation, powered by artificial intelligence and digital tools, promises to speed up routine police services and make them more accessible to citizens. Unveiled by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, the facility is a result of a collaboration between the Ethiopian government and the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute. The partnership reflects a growing trend in other countries like China and the UAE, where technology is being leveraged to streamline public services. At its core, the smart police service aims to eliminate unnecessary human interactions and administrative bottlenecks. Citizens can now report crimes, traffic accidents, and other incidents through digital channels, reducing the need for physical visits to police stations. This, according to federal police commissioner general Demelash Gebremichael, will promote transparency and encourage more people to engage with law enforcement. The launch is part of Ethiopia's broader Digital Ethiopia 2030 strategy, which seeks to modernise public institutions and make them more competitive through technology. If successful, the smart police service could become a model for other African countries to rethink public safety in the digital age. However, not everyone is convinced that this innovation is a silver bullet. Critics point out that many Ethiopians, particularly those in rural areas, lack access to the internet and digital infrastructure. This could limit the effectiveness of the smart police service, exacerbating existing inequalities. Additionally, there are concerns about data privacy, cybersecurity, and the potential for surveillance risks and community alienation if systems fail or are misused. As Ethiopia navigates this uncharted terrain, it remains to be seen whether the AI-powered smart police service will live up to its promise. One thing is certain, though: the country is taking a significant step towards embracing technology as a tool for improving public safety and governance.