Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi recently met with Orange Group Chief Executive Christel Heydemann to discuss ways to increase investment in Egypt and explore participation in the second phase of the national digital health project. The meeting was attended by Communications and Information Technology Minister Raafat Hendy, Orange Middle East and Africa Chief Executive Yasser Shaker, and Orange Egypt Chief Executive Hisham Mahran. During the meeting, Al-Sisi emphasized the importance of cooperation in telecommunications, digital transformation, and technology systems.
Al-Sisi praised Orange's activities in Egypt, including its work in telecom services, smart platforms, digital education, and community development. He encouraged the company to expand its investment in the local market, citing growth opportunities and government programs aimed at developing digital skills among young people. The president also highlighted the need for cooperation with Orange on the second phase of the national digital health project, particularly in digital infrastructure, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and systems integration.
The Egyptian government is keen on developing digital skills among young people, and Al-Sisi urged broader cooperation on training Egyptians for future jobs in artificial intelligence, data analytics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. This includes internationally recognized professional certifications through global technology partners. Orange has announced training grants for around 200,000 participants in AI and cybersecurity, including opportunities to obtain international certifications.
In addition to the training grants, Orange has allocated €25m to support startups working in AI and advanced technologies. The company has also committed to equipping a number of Egyptian universities with modern technology laboratories. While the presidency's statement did not specify the implementation timetable or how the startup funding would be distributed, it is clear that Orange is committed to supporting Egypt's digital transformation.
Christel Heydemann said Orange's experience in Egypt could serve as a model for projects in other countries in the region, particularly in Africa. She praised government programs supporting startups, youth skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Heydemann's comments highlight the potential for Egypt to become a hub for digital innovation and technology in the region.
The meeting between Al-Sisi and Heydemann is part of a broader effort to promote investment and cooperation in Egypt's technology sector. The government has been working to create an environment that supports the growth of startups and technology companies, and Orange's commitment to investing in Egypt is a positive sign for the sector.
The digital health project is a key initiative aimed at improving healthcare outcomes in Egypt. The second phase of the project will focus on digital infrastructure, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and systems integration. With Orange's participation, the project is expected to make significant progress in improving Egypt's healthcare system.
Key points
- Al-Sisi urges Orange to join the second phase of the national digital health project.
- Orange allocates €25m to support startups working in AI and advanced technologies.
- The company commits to equipping Egyptian universities with modern technology laboratories.
