Cairo recently hosted a big meeting between Egypt's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). They met to explore ways to boost their joint cooperation in digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and general digital infrastructure. They also discussed supporting Egypt's efforts to attract investments in green data centers and outsourcing services.
During the meeting, Eng. Raafat Hendy, the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, shared Egypt's vision to become a regional hub for advanced technologies. He emphasized that the Ministry is working to establish Egypt as a developer and exporter of AI technologies by expanding their use across various sectors, especially healthcare.
The Minister highlighted the importance of strengthening AI governance and creating experimental environments for AI applications (AI Sandbox), along with testing and auditing labs that meet international standards. This ensures the safe and responsible use of modern technologies, while also expanding the sharing of successful Egyptian experiences regionally.
Discussions also covered supporting general digital public infrastructure (DPI) and reviewing efforts to develop Egypt's digital identity system. This system is a key pillar of digital transformation, with a special focus on enabling young people to access digital services efficiently and securely.
The Minister affirmed that Egypt has become an attractive destination for digital investments, thanks to rapid advancements in technological infrastructure, a supportive legislative environment, and a large pool of qualified digital talent. He noted that work continues to support the growth of the digital economy by empowering startups and enhancing Egypt's position as a global hub for outsourcing services.
For her part, Chitose Noguchi, the UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt, stated that the partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology is an advanced model for cooperation in supporting digital transformation. She mentioned that the program aims to support Egypt's participation in international platforms and enhance its role in shaping the future of technology at both regional and international levels.
She explained that the cooperation also extends to supporting Egypt's ambitions to strengthen its position as a regional hub for outsourcing and digital services. This will be achieved by leveraging the UNDP's global networks and tools to attract investments and support the growth of the digital economy.
During the meeting, Eng. Mahmoud Badawy, Assistant Minister of Communications and Information Technology for Digital Transformation Affairs, showcased Egypt's efforts in building general digital public infrastructure. He highlighted Egypt's hosting of the first Global Digital Public Infrastructure Summit, which reflects its growing standing in this field.
He also touched upon Egypt's experience in digital identity, emphasizing the importance of developing this system as one of the main drivers for the future of digital transformation, especially in supporting secure access to government services.
In the same context, Dr. Hoda Baraka, Advisor to the Minister of Communications and Information Technology for Technological Skills Development, reviewed the pillars of the second phase of the National AI Strategy. She pointed out the importance of enhancing international cooperation and exchanging expertise in this area to support the building of an integrated digital society based on modern technologies.
Samer Saeed, Acting Undersecretary and Head of the Central Administration for Financial, Administrative and Needs Affairs at the Ministry, affirmed that cooperation with the UNDP represents a successful model for integrating national and international efforts. He noted its role in accelerating the pace of digital transformation and supporting sustainable development goals.
Dr. Abeer Shakweer, Assistant Resident Representative for the UNDP in Egypt, also indicated that cooperation with the Ministry focuses on responsible AI, capacity building, and strengthening innovation ecosystems. She explained that the AI-SHARE initiative aims to support the transfer of locally developed technological solutions to African and Arab markets, thereby enhancing Egypt's role as a key contributor to the development of emerging technologies.
The meeting also explored opportunities for cooperation in green data centers and knowledge exchange in digital infrastructure. Additionally, they discussed expanding cooperation with international partners like Japan and Korea, with a focus on transferring expertise and adopting global best practices.
Mechanisms for supporting startups and linking scientific research outcomes with industry through Egypt's Digital Innovation Centers were also reviewed. This aims to enhance their ability to expand and compete in international markets, supporting the state's direction towards an innovation and knowledge-based digital economy.
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