Egypt's Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Eng. Rifat Hendi, has announced plans to launch a national strategy for data centers by the end of 2026. The strategy aims to develop the country's digital infrastructure and enhance its position as a hub for data storage and processing in the region. This move is part of the government's efforts to build a digital economy that contributes to the country's GDP and provides job opportunities.
The announcement was made during the opening of the 8th edition of the FDC Summit, which is being held under the auspices of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the Ministry of Industry. The summit brings together leaders and experts from the communications and technology sector, as well as representatives from government agencies and private companies. The event aims to discuss the latest trends and technologies in the field and explore opportunities for collaboration and investment.
Eng. Hendi emphasized that the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology is working to create a comprehensive framework for digital transformation, which includes the development of data centers, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. He noted that Egypt has been working on building a national framework for artificial intelligence since 2019, with the aim of supporting the growth of the digital economy and improving the quality of life for citizens.
The Minister highlighted the importance of data centers as a key component of the digital economy, providing the necessary infrastructure for hosting and processing data. He noted that Egypt is well-positioned to become a hub for data centers in the region, given its strategic location and existing digital infrastructure. The country is home to 20 international submarine cables that carry 90% of internet traffic between Europe and Asia.
Eng. Hendi also emphasized the importance of cybersecurity as a key component of national security and trust in the digital economy. He noted that the government is working to implement the second edition of the National Cybersecurity Strategy 2023-2027, which aims to enhance the country's cybersecurity capabilities and protect against emerging threats.
The Minister also discussed the growth of the communications and information technology sector in Egypt, which has been one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country. He noted that the sector's growth rate had exceeded 19% during the 2025/2026 fiscal year, driven by the increasing demand for digital services and the government's efforts to promote investment in the sector.
The launch of the national data center strategy is expected to further boost the growth of the digital economy in Egypt and enhance the country's position as a hub for data storage and processing in the region. The strategy is also expected to create new job opportunities and attract investment in the sector.
Key points
- Egypt plans to launch a national strategy for data centers by the end of 2026 to boost its digital economy.
