Innovation wears Netela: Ethiopia to Build Its Own Versions of WhatsApp, Gmail, and Zoom, Citing Tired of Data Leaks

The Information Network Security Administration (INSA) has unveiled that the country is actively phasing out international applications like Gmail, Telegram, and WhatsApp in favor of Ethiopian-developed alternatives. The move is part of a broader push to protect sensitive national data and reduce reliance on foreign-owned technologies that operate beyond Ethiopia’s legal and regulatory reach.

In an exclusive interview with Sheger FM, INSA’s sales expert, Eshetu, said the shift is not only about cybersecurity but also about national ownership of critical digital infrastructure. Among the flagship local platforms is “Ergamail”, a government email client currently deployed across federal institutions. For messaging and voice services, “Serkutni”, positioned as an Ethiopian alternative to WhatsApp and Telegram, is under implementation. For virtual meetings, “Debo”, another INSA-developed platform, is already being piloted.

Beyond communications, INSA has also developed critical software for tax collection and land registry. Eshetu pointed to the new electronic tax system, now used by the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority, and a modernized cadastral registry system for land administration. The former is streamlining tax filing by eliminating paper trails, while the latter replaces outdated, map-heavy land verification processes with digital landholding records.

According to INSA, these tools are not just under development but already in use across key government agencies. They enable faster service delivery, boost operational efficiency, and protect classified information from external breaches. The agency says more platforms are under way, with the goal of replacing all foreign-based software used in public service delivery with fully local solutions.