The United States is linking digital technology exports with major infrastructure support to strengthen its commercial influence across Africa.

Speaking at the African Logistics and Communications Symposium in Addis Ababa, Mark Mitchell, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for the Middle East and Africa, outlined Washington’s strategic push to back both physical transportation networks and digital technology across the continent.

At the centerpiece of the commercial strategy is Ethiopia’s $12.5 billion Bishoftu International Airport project, designed to serve as Africa’s largest aviation hub.

The U.S. Commerce Department is actively maneuvering to secure American industrial participation in the construction and long-term fleet supply of the project — an endeavor that carries deeply personal significance for Mitchell.

"One personal highlight for me was my meeting with Ethiopian Airlines. My father actually flew for them many years ago," Mitchell shared. "So making that connection carried special meaning. We were able to discuss the Bishoftu International Airport project, which is remarkable and very exciting as an undertaking for the company, and indeed the country," he remarked.

He added: "Across agencies, the U.S. Government is committed to exploring ways to support the realization of this transformative project," Mitchell added regarding the mega-airport hub. "We’re excited about what that airport’s expansion portends for the airline’s growth, meaning more Boeing aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines in fact connecting Africa to the world further."

In tandem with heavy logistics, the U.S. is deploying a presidential directive aimed at standardizing American artificial intelligence across developing markets. Following high-level discussions with the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, officials positioned U.S. AI technology as a core driver for regional economic transformation.

"The Department of Commerce has been tasked by the President with leading the United States Government’s strategy to promote export of the American AI tech stack," Mitchell highlighted. 

"We look forward to building on our earlier conversations here, and in that regard to support Ethiopia’s ambitious agenda in this space."

The twin strategy reflects an integrated approach between trade diplomacy and defense posture. By co-hosting the symposium alongside U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), Washington emphasized that secure digital communications and physical logistics infrastructure are critical prerequisites for sustained private sector investment.

"I had the chance to talk about how security underpins economic development and to meet with and promote those U.S. companies helping to deliver that security," Mitchell noted, emphasising the role of American technology in logistics and communications. 

"Events like the African Logistics and Communications Symposium are exactly the kind of platform we need to keep creating to turn these opportunities into consequential new partnerships."

The coordinated strategy comes as African governments seek long-term capital and advanced tech partnerships, offering American companies a structured pathway into East Africa's rapidly expanding markets.