Al-Mashat Reviews Egypt's Experience in Launching 'NWFE' Program at EBRD Special Session
Taarek Refaat
Press Release
In a special session organized by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) during the Annual Meetings to exchange expertise, with representatives from Morocco, Kazakhstan, Tunisia, Jordan, Nigeria, and others
Dr. Rania Al-Mashat presents Egypt's experience in formulating and implementing the 'NWFE' program to mobilize climate finance and attract private sector investment in mitigation and adaptation projects
• Al-Mashat: The 'NWFE' country platform program is a key pillar of the National Climate Change Strategy 2050.
• The program is based on country ownership in preparing bankable projects and creates an approach for innovative partnerships between international institutions and the private sector.
• Over two years, the program has gained significant support in various international forums.
• The 'NWFE' platform includes a set of innovative financing tools, debt-for-climate swaps, and technical support to ensure effective project implementation.
During the annual meetings of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, held in the United Kingdom from May 13–15, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, reviewed Egypt's experience in launching the country platform of the 'NWFE' program, as a model for innovative climate platforms working to mobilize climate investments and strengthen national strategies to share experiences, expertise, and best practices with the bank's member countries.
This came during a special session organized by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in the presence of Dr. Heike Harmgart, EBRD Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Mark Davis, EBRD Regional Director for the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean region, and representatives from Kazakhstan, Morocco, Jordan, Nigeria, Tunisia, and a number of other countries.
The Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation presented the efforts made to formulate and implement the country platform of the 'NWFE' program, its institutional and organizational structure, and mechanisms to attract the private sector to finance climate change mitigation and adaptation projects.
H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat emphasized that the 'NWFE' program represents the nexus between water, food, and energy projects, as Egypt launched the program in July 2022 to drive green transformation efforts and move from climate pledges to actual implementation. The program is a result of cooperation among national entities under the umbrella of the National Climate Change Strategy 2050. The program is based on Egypt's Vision 2030 and aims to accelerate the implementation of the national climate agenda.
The Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation added that the 'NWFE' platform provides opportunities to mobilize climate finance and attract private investments to support the green transition in Egypt through feasible, implementable climate projects that link climate action with development efforts and turn climate pledges into practical steps.
Al-Mashat pointed out that the 'NWFE' program is a practical and effective model of the country platforms concept, recommended by the G20 in 2018, which emphasized the importance of national leadership in coordinating all partners' efforts to achieve more impactful and sustainable results.
H.E. affirmed that the 'NWFE' program was formulated according to national visions and strategies to provide concessional development financing, mobilize private sector investments, technical support and expertise to implement green projects in the fields of adaptation and mitigation of climate change repercussions.
H.E. also added that the program is based on the principle of national ownership, cross-sectoral coordination, and large-scale, high-impact implementation. The program also supports Egypt's updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for 2023, which target increased renewable energy rates by 2030, noting that the program was officially announced at COP27 and gained significant international support during COP28 and COP29, explaining that during the last climate conference, 12 multilateral development banks issued a joint statement on national climate action platforms, highlighting Egypt's 'NWFE' country platform launched in 2022 to enhance green investment strategies.
In this context, she clarified that the country platform of the 'NWFE' program includes nine priority projects in the energy, food, and water sectors, selected from the National Climate Change Strategy 2050, with the addition of sustainable transport projects, under the name 'NWFE+,' with the participation of national entities and relevant stakeholders.
H.E. confirmed that these pillars contribute to supporting Egypt's transition toward a low-emission economy, achieving the goals of 'Egypt Vision 2030' and the National Climate Change Strategy 2050, as well as attracting regional and international investments in sustainable development. The 'NWFE' program proves that clear policies, effective partnerships, and integrated coordination can effectively address climate challenges and provide a replicable model for other countries.
Furthermore, H.E. noted that the country platform of the 'NWFE' program, in partnership with international financial institutions, global alliances, and investment funds, has provided innovative financing tools to stimulate private sector investments in green projects, noting that in just two years, we have successfully mobilized $3.9 billion in concessional financing for the private sector to implement renewable energy projects with a capacity of 4 gigawatts, in addition to enhancing investments in the national electricity grid.
H.E. extended her gratitude to the main development partners for each pillar: the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development for the energy pillar, with special thanks to Odile Renaud Basso, President of the EBRD for her efforts, the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) for water and food, and the European Investment Bank (EIB) for sustainable transportation, in addition to all bilateral and multilateral development partners involved in the different phases of the 'NWFE' program.
read more
CBE: Deposits in Local Currency Hit EGP 5.25 Trillion
Morocco Plans to Spend $1 Billion to Mitigate Drought Effect
Gov't Approves Final Version of State Ownership Policy Document
Egypt's Economy Expected to Grow 5% by the end of 2022/23- Minister
Qatar Agrees to Supply Germany with LNG for 15 Years
Business
Oil Prices Descend amid Anticipation of Additional US Strategic Petroleum Reserves
Business
Suez Canal Records $704 Million, Historically Highest Monthly Revenue
Business
Egypt's Stock Exchange Earns EGP 4.9 Billion on Tuesday
Business
Wheat delivery season commences on April 15
News
Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers
Lifestyle
Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe
News
Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia
News
Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content
Arts & Culture
Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized
Sports
Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer
Sports
Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
News
Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies
Arts & Culture
New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple
Business
Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
See - Sada Elbalad
18 hours ago
- See - Sada Elbalad
Uzbekistan President Delivers Speech at 4th Tashkent International Investment Forum
Rana Atef On Tuesday, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, delivered a speech at the Fourth Tashkent International Investment Forum. The full text of his speech is as follows: "Dear participants of the forum! Ladies and gentlemen! Dear guests! At the outset, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all of our distinguished guests, high-ranking representatives from our partner countries, heads of international organizations, and prominent figures from the business world, to the Fourth Tashkent International Investment Forum. I am also delighted to welcome His Excellency Rumen Radev, President of Bulgaria, His Excellency Robert Fico, Prime Minister of Slovakia, His Excellency Olzhas Bektenov, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, His Excellency Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Kyrgyz Government, His Excellency Kohir Rasulzoda, Prime Minister of Tajikistan, His Excellency Ali Asadov, Prime Minister of Azerbaijan, Deputy Prime-Minister of Russia Mr. Alexander Novak, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Mr. Nokerguli Ataguliev, who are with us today. I would also like to welcome the distinguished delegations from Russia, China, the United States of America, and the Arab, European, Asian and African countries. Let me express my special gratitude to the heads of the financial institutions working closely with us: Ms. Odile Renaud-Basso, President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and Ms. Dilma Rousseff, President of the New Development Bank. Today's forum is attended by more than 7.5 thousand delegates, including almost 3 thousand foreign guests from around 100 countries. We see this as a true expression of respect for our country, as well as an indication of mutual trust and close cooperation. Welcome to Uzbekistan, dear friends! Dear participants! The world today is facing big challenges. Serious threats to global security and sustainable development are strengthening, while geopolitical processes are changing rapidly before our eyes. The global arms race is intensifying again. Military spending by major countries has increased by 1.5 times against 2010, reaching $2.5 trillion. Due to the consequences of the economic crisis and a shortage of financial resources global GDP has been declining for three years in a row. Unfortunately, the norms of international law and the power of diplomacy are weakening. Even more regrettably, attention is waning to the most pressing problems of humanity: food security, poverty and climate change. It is more important than ever to restore peace, justice and a shared belief in human dignity around the world. We believe that the situation related to Ukraine must be resolved only through diplomatic means, and we welcome the process of direct negotiations taking place in Istanbul. At the same time, I would like to draw your attention to the ongoing tragedy in Gaza. In the 21st century, the death of so many innocent people before our eyes cannot be justified. The only solution to this problem is a fair settlement of the conflict based on international law and adopted resolutions. The people of Palestine have a right to their own independent state. Another issue on the global agenda is supporting the peaceful and sustainable development of neighboring Afghanistan. Now more than ever, it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue with the current government of this country on the international stage and to prevent its isolation. After all, stability and economic development in Afghanistan are key factors for the long-term progress of all surrounding regions. On the issues I have just outlined, we urge all our partner states to engage in open and broad-based international cooperation. Because the core theme of the forum is investments that guarantee not only economic development, but also peace and stability! Let us work together to create an investment environment that, alongside generating profit, becomes a strong foundation for upholding human dignity and contributing to societal development! Dear guests! In the current challenging environment, we are focusing our primary attention on maintaining economic stability in Uzbekistan. Our gross domestic product has doubled over the past eight years. We have set a goal to increase it to $200 billion by 2030. Last year, the volume of investments into national economy reached $35 billion, and exports amounted to $27 billion. This is also a practical result of the Tashkent International Investment Forum, now being held for the fourth consecutive year. The effectiveness of reforms in New Uzbekistan is duly reflected in international rankings. Our position in the Index of Economic Freedom has risen by 48 places over the past five years. In the Economic Complexity Index of Harvard University, we improved our standing by 28 positions. Last month, the reputable agency S&P upgraded Uzbekistan's independent credit rating outlook from "stable" to "positive." We all understand that today, the world economy is on the threshold of a new era and changes. This encourages all countries to work together on the path of sustainable development in the following four areas. Firstly, transition to green economy. We are firmly committed to developing green energy to provide our economy with stable energy resources. Over the past short period, nearly $6 billion worth of foreign direct investment has been attracted to this sector. Electricity production has increased from 59 billion to 82 billion kilowatt-hours. In the next five years, this figure will exceed 120 billion kilowatt-hours, and the share of green energy in the energy mix will reach 54 percent. We will also attract $4 billion to upgrade the power grids. In this regard, this year we will transfer the Samarkand power grids, and next year, another 8 regional power grids to private partnership. In addition, we have launched the sale of green certificates and carbon units for the first time. This year, we will join global carbon markets and create a 'Green Uzbekistan' climate investment platform. Secondly, digital technologies and AI are turning into the 'drivers' of the economy. This year alone, IT exports in our country will reach $1 billion. We have enough potential and opportunities to increase this figure fivefold by 2030. Our work has been internationally recognized, and over the year, we have risen 17 positions in the International AI Readiness Index. Next year, 'Cloud Technologies' National Platform will be launched. In the next five years, together with private investors, we will build 20 Data Centers with a capacity of more than 500 megawatts. We will also develop a national model of artificial intelligence that embodies our rich history, values, and new creative ideas. In order to ensure the effectiveness of this system, we have launched the project 'One million AI leaders'. I am confident that together with you, we will turn Uzbekistan into a prestigious IT and Fintech 'hub'. Third, the financial system and technologies are drastically changing in modern world. Recently, together with the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of Uzbekistan's financial sector for the first time. They fully supported our reforms in banking, finance, insurance, and the capital market. In order to take these sectors to the next stage of development a Financial Stability Council will be established in Uzbekistan, as well as cybersecurity and financial technology platforms at the Central Bank. We have also launched major reforms in the insurance system. A National Reinsurance Company and Global Digital Reinsurance Platform have been established. We are witnessing rapid growth of venture capital as an alternative tool for startups. Notably, last year, two local startup companies' capitalization surpassed $1 billion. We are committed to increasing the number of such companies. In this regard, a draft law "On Alternative Investment Funds" has been developed. Our goal is to increase the volume of venture and other alternatives investments to $1 billion over the next five years. There is another significant direction. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is sharply increasing global demand for so-called "technological minerals". Uzbekistan is home to substantial reserves of minerals, including tungsten, molybdenum, magnesium, lithium, graphite, vanadium, titanium, and others. In total, the potential of our subsoil resources is valued at $ 3 trillion. We have all necessary capabilities to transform our region into a hub for the production of high value-added goods from minerals. In this regard, we are constructing "Metals of the Future" techno parks in the Tashkent and Samarkand regions. In this context, I would like to put forward an initiative: investors implementing a full-cycle operation – from geological exploration to the production of finished goods – will be granted rent tax refund for 10 years. I am confident that our long-term productive relations will bring win-win business cooperation in all key areas. Distinguished investors! We are taking all necessary measures to turn the principle of "New Uzbekistan – a country of vast opportunities for investments" into practical accomplishments. First and foremost, I would like to draw your attention to one important point: it is essential to ensure level playing field for each state within global production chains. Undoubtedly, the World Trade Organization plays a key role in this regard. Therefore, we have set the goal to become a member of this organization next year and we are actively working with our partners. To this end we have harmonized dozens of laws and hundreds of standards to international requirements, and this year we will complete this process in full. Second, in order to create a more favorable environment for foreign investors in our country a 'national regime' will be introduced, guaranteeing the same conditions as those enjoyed by local companies, the 'one-stop-shop' principle will be implemented in relations with government bodies, a system of guaranteed protection of investment activities from excessive inspections will also be created. These measures are intended to raise Uzbekistan's credit rating to the "investment" level by 2030. Third, in privatization of state-owned companies, we have opted to transform them into valuable assets that serve the prosperity of our country. To this end, we have established the National Investment Fund that unites state shares in 18 major companies and banks worth almost $2 billion. A world-renowned Franklin Templeton company has been invited to manage the Fund. Next year, the Fund will launch its international IPO. Moreover, professional consultants will be invited to privatize 29 large state-owned companies within two years. Fourth, we recognize the vital role of transport and logistics in our economy. Therefore, we are actively attracting private capital to this sector. For instance, Samarkand, Namangan, Bukhara and Urganch international airports have been handed over to sophisticated investors on the basis of a public-private partnership. The world's leading company, Incheon, has been involved in the management of Urgench Airport. Next year, tenders will also be held for Nukus, Termez, Fergana and Navoi airports. Another significant development is that the population of our capital city has exceeded 5 million. In order to accommodate this growth, we are planning to build the city of "New Tashkent" to house 2 million people, transforming the capital into a metropolis. A "multimodal hub" will be created that covers railway, road transport and airport, serving 20 million passengers in a year. Large shopping and financial centres will also be built. We invite investors, international financial institutions and foreign banks to collaborate with us on this major project. Fifth, as a result of our open and friendly policy towards our neighbours in recent years a new environment for cooperation has been created in Central Asia. The participation of the heads of governments of these countries in today's forum is clear proof of this. Please note that the volume of trade with our neighbors has increased by more than 3.5 times in eight years, reaching almost $13 billion. Large investment projects are being implemented. In particular, construction of China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway has begun, significant progress has been made on preparing major energy and infrastructure projects. More broadly, we propose promoting the 'Concept of an Integrated Region for Investment and Trade' in Central Asia. In this regard, I would like to reach out to international organizations with a following message: the time has come to establish new financial mechanisms to support regional projects. By working together, we can transform Central Asia into a place of peace and prosperity. Dear participants of the forum! We are hosting today's event in a new, expanded format. For the first time, a specialized exhibition is taking place as part of the forum, with Uzbek companies presenting their projects and joint initiatives. I would like to underscore one issue: for us, investment is not just a financial resource. It also encompasses technology, knowledge, qualified personnel and integration into the international production chain – in other words, real development. Uzbekistan will create all conditions necessary for foreign investors with such noble ideas, provide its support and guarantee. All doors are open to you in our country. The most important thing is that there are laws that protect your activity. We have an open state and hardworking people ready for cooperation. I would like to express my sincere gratitude once again to all investors, representatives of foreign governments and international organizations who are participating in today's forum and visiting our country. I wish you all success and great achievements. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
Mid East Info
a day ago
- Mid East Info
FSB Sports Show Riyadh spotlights 200 exhibitors powering next-gen sports & leisure solutions for Saudi Arabia's urban future
Smart, sustainable and inclusive products and services, including urban design, landscape architecture, sports surfaces and more at the inaugural edition Visitors can explore the future of sports and leisure infrastructure and network with key exhibitors, including Asharqiyah Cables, Yardex, Bejadin and BSG FSB Sports Show Riyadh takes place alongside the Saudi Sports & Leisure Summit, aligning with Vision 2030 and major national initiatives Saudi Arabia's ambitious plans for world-class sports infrastructure and recreation spaces are gaining momentum, supported by over $2 billion in committed investments and a projected $5.9 billion in sports sector revenue by 2030. With major international sporting events, including the Asian Cup 2027, Riyadh Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034 on the horizon, the Kingdom is accelerating development as part of Vision 2030. Aligned with this ambition, the debut edition of FSB Sports Show Riyadh is set to welcome thousands of industry leaders and professionals from 16–18 June at Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. Organized by dmg events in collaboration with Koelnmesse, the event brings the internationally renowned FSB – International Trade Fair for Public Space, Sports and Leisure Facilities brand to Saudi Arabia for the first time, creating a dedicated business and networking platform for the Kingdom's fast-evolving sports and recreation landscape. 'From active cities and giga projects to school playgrounds and public parks, Saudi Arabia is transforming how it designs and delivers spaces for sports, wellness and recreation,' said Muhammed Kazi, Senior Vice President – Construction, dmg events. 'FSB Sports Show Riyadh has been developed to address this evolution and enable connections that can support long-term sector growth.' 'FSB is the international benchmark for innovations in sports and leisure facilities. As Saudi Arabia scales up investment across public parks, playgrounds or stadiums to increase the health and well-being of the public, now is the ideal time to bring this event to Riyadh,' said Denis Steker, Senior Vice President – International, Koelnmesse. 'Together with dmg events, we're proud to create an environment where industry leaders can exchange expertise, showcase capabilities and form long-term, sustainable partnerships.' Shaping Saudi Arabia's next generation of active spaces With public health, youth development and tourism among the key Vision 2030 priorities, FSB Sports Show Riyadh prioritizes integrated sports and wellness zones within giga projects, boosting green spaces in cities. The opportunities presented at the exhibition further encourage private sector investment in fitness, aquatics and leisure infrastructure. Across three days, the event will showcase equipment, flooring, turf, gym and fitness systems, playgrounds, outdoor furniture, water technologies, smart sports facilities and urban well-being solutions from both international pioneers and regional specialists. Some of the prominent participating brands include Asharqiyah Cables, a Saudi Arabian manufacturer specializing in control, instrumentation, low-current and fire-resistant cable; Yardex, a global artificial grass manufacturer providing high-quality synthetic turf for sports and landscaping applications; Bejadin, a Saudi Arabian focused on safety, electro-mechanical services and smart building solutions; and BSG, Polish company specializing in chemical component manufacturing and industrial solutions, among others, covering the needs of planners and buyers from municipalities, education, hospitality, defence and entertainment sectors. Decision-makers from across Saudi Arabia are actively seeking a robust sports infrastructure, durable equipment, playgrounds and leisure facilities that meet both quality and quantity demand. As the event approaches in under two weeks, visitors will have the opportunity to network with decision-makers from companies including Ministry of Sport, Ministry of Education, NEOM, Diriyah Gate Development Authority, Royal Commission for Riyadh City and General Entertainment Authority, among others. 'Saudi Arabia's sports sector is growing rapidly, evolving in scope and sophistication. We now see demand for more integrated and digitally enabled facilities that cater to every age group, community type and use case. FSB Sports Show Riyadh allows us to meet new clients, strengthen existing partnerships and deliver solutions built for the industry requirements, catering to our country's vision,' said Ahmed Al-Omair, Chief Executive Officer, ORF Construction Chemical Solutions. 'Saudi Arabia offers unmatched potential in the sports and leisure space, given the country's ambitious plans and the planned sporting events in the upcoming years. This show gives us the right stage to engage with buyers and developers who are actively working towards building the country's physical and recreational infrastructure,' said Genny Logan, General Manager, Faris Group. Exclusive insights from key stakeholders FSB Sports Show Riyadh will host two insightful content features, Saudi Sports & Leisure Summit and ActiveSpaces 360, both designed to explore the evolving demands of Saudi Arabia's sports infrastructure and leisure landscape. From future stadiums and recreational complexes to community activation and smart city integration, these sessions offer in-depth discussions tailored to a rapidly evolving market. Taking place on the first day of the event, 16 June, Saudi Sports & Leisure Summit will spotlight public-private collaboration, adaptive venue design, safety and smart facility management. Some of the top speakers sharing insights at the summit include Alanood Alothaimeen, Director of Strategy and Policies, Saudi Sports for All Federation; Paul Goodall, Associate Principal, Populous; Yehia Madkour, Middle East Director, Perkins & Will; John Seed, Group Director Strategy and Development, Dar Al Riyadh; among others. Key sessions will explore themes such as sustainable wellness-focused sports spaces, legacy-driven & multi-use venue design and global trends shaping the future of sports and leisure infrastructure. Running on 17 and 18 June, ActiveSpaces 360 will feature expert-led discussions on the design, construction and management strategies for urban and multi-use sports spaces. With speakers, including Tom Pinnington, Director, The Sports Consultancy, United Kingdom; Paul Rigby, Partner, FaulknerBrowns Architects, United Kingdom; Klaus Meinel, Secretary General, IAKS – International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities; and Luis Guimaraes, Senior Manager at Alvarez & Marsal, among others, visitors will gain diverse insights from global and regional perspectives. Key sessions will cover sustainable maintenance and cleaning of synthetic surfaces, unlocking the social value of elite sports facilities and the latest innovations driving surface resilience and performance. From schools to stadiums, these forward-looking talks aim to equip stakeholders with strategies aligned with Vision 2030's focus on smart, inclusive and sustainable active environments. FSB Sports Show Riyadh is sponsored by Doka (Theatre Sponsor), with partners including Al Yamama (Sports Facilities Solutions Partner), Syngenta Turf & Landscape and Naffco (Founding Partners), AHK (Knowledge Partner), AIA Middle East (Architecture Partner), IAKS and ESTC (ActiveSpaces 360 Session Partners), Marafei Almarefah (Golfing Partner) and Teleiosx (Racing Partner). The free-to-attend FSB Sports Show Riyadh will be co-located with International Hardware Fair Saudi Arabia.
Daily News Egypt
a day ago
- Daily News Egypt
Egypt poised to lead regional 5G expansion, eyes additional spectrum, SME inclusion: Ericsson
Egypt is making significant progress towards a nationwide 5G rollout, but must accelerate spectrum allocation and foster adoption among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to fully realise the technology's potential, according to Iwan Stella, Vice President and Head of Commercial Management & Strategy at Ericsson for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. In an interview with Daily News Egypt, Stella welcomed Egypt's recent 5G licensing and network trials as 'important steps,' noting that modernisation initiatives and shared infrastructure are establishing a strong foundation. However, he emphasised the urgent need for more mid- and low-band spectrum to ensure reliable indoor coverage and scalable fixed wireless access (FWA) to meet both urban and industrial demand. 'Operators will only be able to deliver the low-latency connections required by Egypt's expanding industrial sector once sufficient spectrum is made available,' he said, stressing the importance of aligning with Egypt Vision 2030 through a phased rollout that balances cost efficiency with measurable milestones. While Egypt's digital infrastructure—including backhaul fibre networks and upgraded power systems—is largely 5G-ready, Stella noted that clear timelines for additional spectrum, particularly in contiguous mid-band ranges, will be critical for operators to complete network planning and accelerate deployment. He pointed to 'try-and-buy' initiatives and software-as-a-service (SaaS) models as practical methods to encourage 5G adoption among SMEs. 'Tiered service offerings—from basic connectivity for micro-enterprises to assured low-latency connections for advanced manufacturers—allow smaller businesses to scale services according to their needs,' Stella explained. Ericsson views Egypt's strong digital maturity and regulatory momentum as key differentiators in the region. Its strategy includes dual-band deployment—low-band for broad national coverage and mid-band for high-demand areas—combined with AI-powered network optimisation managed from Ericsson's Cairo-based Analytics Hub. To ensure a sustainable rollout, Stella called for transparent spectrum planning, robust cybersecurity frameworks, and incentives to encourage the adoption of energy-efficient network technologies—aligning both commercial goals and environmental responsibilities. With Egypt gaining international recognition for its broadband advancements, Stella urged policymakers to support the migration of legacy 2G, 3G, and 4G users to 5G-enabled devices. 'The quicker people and industries adopt 5G terminals—including FWA—the faster the return on investment. Once users experience high-performing 5G, they won't want to go back.' Despite cost sensitivity among SMEs, Stella believes innovations such as network slicing and edge services offer a practical bridge to private 5G capabilities without requiring heavy upfront investment. 'Egypt has all the ingredients to become a regional hub for 5G innovation,' he said. 'Ambitious infrastructure projects, a tech-savvy workforce, and a stable, secure spectrum policy can attract international R&D, cloud providers, and IoT manufacturers.'
