Digital technology most influential, powerful tool to address societal challenges: Talaat

Egypt Independent

26-03-2025

Minister of Communications and Information Technology Amr Talaat has delivered a recorded speech at the National Conference of the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects (Round Three) stressing that digital technology is one of the most powerful tools for addressing societal challenges, particularly climate change.
The event – hosted by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation – was attended by the prime minister, several ministers, governors, parliament members and representatives from UN organizations, international institutions, private companies, civil society organizations and development partners.
In his speech, the minister of communication said, as part of the Digital Egypt vision, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) is committed to promoting sustainable digital technologies and driving digital transformation through close cooperation with various state sectors, enabling the delivery of digital government services to citizens, thus the MCIT is leveraging AI technologies in different fields, according to a statement by the MCIT Monday.
He also highlighted efforts and investments in expanding access to high-speed internet nationwide, which has contributed to the country ranking first in Africa in average fixed Internet speed.
The minister reaffirmed the MCIT's commitment to developing skilled professionals in ICT sciences and fostering technological innovation and entrepreneurship. He noted that 23 Creativa Innovation Hubs have been established across various governorates to support young innovators.
Talaat further said the MCIT's participation in the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects reflects its dedication to building a knowledge-based economy and encouraging innovation in climate action by creating smart technological solutions to address climate challenges. Over the past two editions of the initiative, the MCIT worked to increase awareness and reach promising project owners across the country.
The ministry also developed and designed the digital training pillar, which raises awareness of emerging technologies, their applications at national and international levels and the technological criteria essential for smart green projects.
For the third round, Talaat highlighted the MCIT's active role in promoting the initiative through social media, MCIT's official website, and its affiliated platforms. The ministry also collaborated with mobile network operators to send half a million SMS messages nationwide to publicize the initiative. Additionally, the MCIT trained contestants on integrating technology into their projects to ensure sustainable and effective digital solutions and participated in the evaluation process at all stages of the initiative.
Looking ahead, Talaat expressed his eagerness to strengthen collaboration with partners in preparation for the fourth round of the initiative. Efforts will focus on enhancing support mechanisms for contestants, increasing awareness and maximizing the impact of innovative project ideas.
The MCIT will continue working with relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Local Development and the National Council for Women to refine evaluation criteria with a greater focus on the smart component of projects. This will help expand participation and enhance the quality of submitted innovations.
The ICT minister reaffirmed the MCIT's commitment to advancing green technology transformation and supporting sustainable digital development.