Countries

Egypt’s approach to internet governance is primarily regulated by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). The government has enacted several laws and regulations to control and manage the digital space, including:

Telecommunications Regulation Law (Law No. 10 of 2003): This law regulates the telecommunications sector, establishing the framework for licensing, service provision, and the management of spectrum. It also outlines the responsibilities of telecommunications operators and the penalties for violations.

Anti-Terrorism Law (Law No. 94 of 2015): This law includes provisions related to internet use, particularly in the context of countering terrorism. It allows for the monitoring and blocking of online content that is considered to promote terrorism.

Personal Data Protection Law (Law No. 151 of 2020): Aimed at safeguarding personal data, this law sets out the requirements for data processing, consent, and the rights of individuals. It is designed to align with international data protection standards and enhance privacy protections for citizens.

Key Institutions

Several key institutions are involved in the governance of the internet in Egypt:

Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT): MCIT is the principal body responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to ICT. It oversees the development of digital infrastructure, promotes ICT literacy, and fosters innovation in the digital sector.

National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA): The NTRA regulates the telecommunications industry, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, managing spectrum allocation, and issuing licenses to operators. It plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the telecommunications network.

Supreme Council for Media Regulation (SCMR): SCMR monitors media content, including online platforms, to ensure adherence to national security guidelines and public morals. It has the authority to block websites and take action against media outlets that violate regulations.

Egypt Vision 2030

Egypt Vision 2030 serves as the cornerstone of the country’s long-term development agenda, with digital transformation as a key pillar. This vision seeks to integrate technology across all sectors to create a knowledge-based economy. The strategy includes ambitious goals such as upgrading the national digital infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and fostering an environment that promotes digital skills and innovation. By 2030, Egypt aims to become a regional leader in digital transformation, enhancing its global competitiveness and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

Digital Egypt Strategy

The Digital Egypt Strategy is a comprehensive plan that focuses on digitizing government services, promoting digital inclusion, and stimulating the digital economy. One of the primary objectives is to transform government operations through the implementation of e-government services. This initiative aims to make government interactions more efficient, transparent, and accessible to all citizens. By digitising various public services, Egypt seeks to reduce bureaucracy, enhance service delivery, and improve overall governance.

In addition to government digital transformation, the strategy emphasises the importance of digital literacy and skills development. To this end, numerous training programs have been launched to equip the workforce and citizens with the necessary digital skills to thrive in a digital economy. These programs target various demographics, including youth, women, and the rural population, ensuring that digital inclusion is achieved across the board.

Innovation and entrepreneurship are also critical components of the Digital Egypt Strategy. The government has established tech hubs and incubators to support startups and tech-based businesses. These initiatives provide resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities, fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that drives technological innovation and economic growth.

ICT 2030 Strategy

The ICT 2030 Strategy aims to position Egypt as a leading regional hub in information and communications technology. This strategy encompasses several key pillars, including infrastructure development, capacity building, and the establishment of regulatory frameworks that support ICT growth.

Infrastructure development is a major focus, with efforts to expand broadband access and enhance telecom services across the country. Significant investments are being made to ensure that all regions, including rural areas, have reliable and high-speed internet connectivity. This is crucial for enabling widespread access to digital services and supporting the overall digital transformation agenda.

Capacity building is another critical area, with substantial investments in education and training to develop a skilled ICT workforce. The government collaborates with academic institutions and the private sector to create programs that prepare individuals for careers in the digital economy. These initiatives aim to build a talent pool that can drive innovation and support the growth of the ICT sector.

Regulatory frameworks play a vital role in fostering a conducive environment for ICT development. The government is working on creating policies and regulations that encourage investment, innovation, and competition in the ICT sector. These efforts aim to create a dynamic and competitive market that drives technological advancements and economic growth.

As Egypt continues to embrace digital transformation and integrate technology into various sectors, cybersecurity has become a critical area of focus. The increasing digitization of government services, businesses, and everyday activities has heightened the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data, ensure privacy, and maintain trust in digital systems.

National Cybersecurity Strategy

Egypt’s National Cybersecurity Strategy outlines the country’s comprehensive approach to addressing cybersecurity challenges. This strategy is designed to safeguard national security, protect critical infrastructure, and secure digital transactions. Key components of the strategy include enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure, building capacity through education and training, and establishing a strong legal and regulatory framework.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

A robust legal and regulatory framework is essential for effective cybersecurity governance. Egypt has enacted several laws and regulations to address cybercrime, data protection, and information security. The Cybercrime Law (‘Anti-Cyber and Information Technology Crimes’ law. (Law No. 175 of 2018), enacted in 2018, criminalises a wide range of cyber activities, including unauthorised access to computer systems, data breaches, and online fraud. This law provides the legal basis for prosecuting cybercriminals and deterring malicious activities.

Key Institutions Overseeing Cybersecurity in Egypt

National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA)

The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) is the primary regulatory body responsible for overseeing telecommunications and cybersecurity in Egypt. NTRA plays a pivotal role in establishing and enforcing regulations that ensure the security and resilience of the country’s telecommunications infrastructure. The authority also collaborates with other government agencies and private sector entities to develop comprehensive cybersecurity policies and frameworks.

National Computer Emergency Response Team (EG-CERT)

The National Computer Emergency Response Team (EG-CERT) operates under the NTRA and is the key institution responsible for coordinating responses to cybersecurity incidents in Egypt. EG-CERT monitors cyber threats, provides early warnings, and assists in mitigating the impact of cyber attacks. The team also conducts regular security assessments, vulnerability analysis, and incident response training to enhance the country’s overall cybersecurity posture. EG-CERT collaborates with international CERTs to share threat intelligence and best practices.

Supreme Council for Cybersecurity (SCC)

The Supreme Council for Cybersecurity (SCC) is a high-level governmental body established to develop and oversee national cybersecurity strategies and policies. The SCC is responsible for ensuring the implementation of cybersecurity measures across various sectors, including government, finance, energy, and healthcare. The council works closely with other governmental and private sector entities to coordinate efforts and promote a unified approach to cybersecurity.

Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) plays a significant role in shaping Egypt’s digital transformation and cybersecurity landscape. The MCIT is responsible for formulating policies, strategies, and initiatives that promote the secure and effective use of information and communications technology (ICT). The ministry also oversees various programs aimed at enhancing digital literacy, building cybersecurity capacities, and fostering innovation in the ICT sector.

Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA)

The Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) operates under the MCIT and focuses on developing Egypt’s IT sector. ITIDA is involved in numerous cybersecurity initiatives, including providing support and funding for cybersecurity startups and innovations. The agency also collaborates with academic institutions and the private sector to promote research and development in cybersecurity, aiming to create a robust cybersecurity ecosystem in Egypt.

Armed Forces Cyber Warfare Department

The Armed Forces Cyber Warfare Department is a specialised unit within the Egyptian military responsible for defending against cyber threats that pose a risk to national security. This department focuses on protecting critical military infrastructure, conducting cyber intelligence operations, and responding to cyber incidents that could impact national defense. The unit collaborates with other governmental bodies to ensure a coordinated approach to national cybersecurity.

Ministry of Interior’s Cyber Crime Unit

The Ministry of Interior’s Cyber Crime Unit is tasked with investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes in Egypt. The unit handles a wide range of cyber-related offenses, including hacking, online fraud, identity theft, and cyber espionage. It works closely with international law enforcement agencies to track and apprehend cybercriminals operating across borders. The Cyber Crime Unit also plays a vital role in raising public awareness about cybersecurity threats and promoting safe online practices.

National AI Strategy

Egypt’s National AI Strategy outlines a comprehensive plan to harness the power of artificial intelligence for the country’s development. The strategy aims to position Egypt as a regional leader in AI by 2030, focusing on key areas such as public services, education, healthcare, agriculture, and smart cities.

Key Objectives of the National AI Strategy:

1. Enhancing Public Services:
   • AI technologies are being integrated into various government services to improve efficiency, reduce corruption, and enhance citizen satisfaction. For example, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are being deployed to handle routine inquiries and streamline government processes.
2. Promoting AI Education and Research:
   • Egypt is investing heavily in AI education and research to develop a skilled workforce capable of driving AI innovation. Universities and research institutions are offering specialized courses and degrees in AI and machine learning, and numerous research projects are being funded to explore AI applications in different fields.
3. Improving Healthcare:
   • AI is being used to enhance healthcare services in Egypt. Applications include AI-powered diagnostic tools, predictive analytics for disease outbreaks, and personalized medicine. These technologies are helping to improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and increase access to quality healthcare.
4. Boosting Agricultural Productivity:
   • AI is being leveraged to optimize agricultural practices and increase productivity. This includes the use of AI-powered drones for crop monitoring, predictive analytics for weather forecasting, and automated irrigation systems. These technologies help farmers make data-driven decisions, reduce resource consumption, and increase crop yields.
5. Developing Smart Cities:
   • Egypt is embracing the concept of smart cities, where AI plays a crucial role in managing urban infrastructure and services. AI is used in traffic management, energy optimization, waste management, and public safety. These smart solutions aim to improve the quality of life for citizens and create sustainable urban environments.

National Council for Artificial Intelligence

In November 2019, the Egyptian government formed the National Council for Artificial Intelligence as a partnership between governmental institutions, prominent academics and practitioners from leading businesses in the field of AI.

The National Council for Artificial Intelligence is chaired by the Minister of Communications and Information Technology. The Council is in charge of outlining, implementing and governing the AI strategy in close coordination with the concerned experts and entities.

Council’s Responsibilities:
– Outline the National AI Strategy
– Provide follow up mechanisms for implementing the National AI Strategy in a way that copes up with international best practices in this field
– Identify national priorities in the area of AI applications
– Recommend national policies and recommendations pertaining to the technical, legal and economic framework of AI applications
– Promote cooperation both regionally and internationally which includes exchanging best practices and expertise
– Identify AI applications that provides smart, safe and sustainable solutions and services
– Review international protocols and agreements in the field of AI
– Recommend capacity building programs and boost the skills and knowledge of national calibers

The Council’s main objective is to unite national efforts, and develop Egypt’s AI strategy and various AI-related applications. This is in addition to recommending capacity building programs and boosting the skills and knowledge of national calibers.