On the sidelines of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Forum in Geneva, Switzerland, which is being chaired by Egypt, Minister of Communications and Information Technology Raafat Hendy held a series of high-level meetings aimed at strengthening international co-operation in digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital capacity building.
During talks with Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo Gitau, the two ministers reviewed progress in implementing the Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries and explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in information and communications technology (ICT).
The discussions focused on digital capacity building, ICT software and equipment, and digital infrastructure, including fibre-optic networks, submarine cables and cross-border connectivity.
They also covered digital literacy, AI training and skills development for young people and communities in remote areas.
Minister Hendy also witnessed the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to strengthen Egypt’s national capabilities in responsible AI governance.
The agreement provides for the development of an AI Sandbox that will offer a controlled environment for testing and evaluating AI systems before their wider deployment, ensuring compliance with responsible AI principles, regulatory requirements and public interest objectives.
The Letter of Intent was signed by Dr Hoda Baraka, Adviser to the Minister for Technological Skills Development, and Chitose Noguchi, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt.
The two sides also discussed cooperation in the outsourcing industry, public digital infrastructure, quantum computing and other emerging technologies.
Hendy said the initiative reflects the priorities of Egypt’s National Council for Artificial Intelligence and supports the country’s efforts to develop practical governance mechanisms and national expertise in AI regulation and evaluation.
Noguchi highlighted the importance of responsible and inclusive AI governance in ensuring that digital transformation contributes to sustainable development and human progress.
The minister also met Sangbu Kim, Vice President for Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence at the World Bank Group, to discuss cooperation in digital transformation, support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), government technology, digital skills and responsible AI.
The meeting also reviewed Egypt’s efforts to expand fibre-optic infrastructure, enhance digital public services, strengthen the outsourcing industry and boost digital exports under the Digital Egypt strategy.Top of FormBottom of Form
