Compiled by Wael Salem
Digital technology gives the world a unique opportunity to accelerate socio-economic development and build a better future, as digital innovations bring about transformations in almost all sectors of the economy by introducing new business models, new products, new services, and new ways of creating value and job opportunities. The results of this transformation are already beginning to emerge as the global digital economy is worth $11.5 trillion, or 15.5 per cent of global gross domestic product (GDP).
Egypt making great progress in AI
Says Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology that Egypt has made much progress with its national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy as applied to the nation’s digital transformation,
Talaat added that a capacity-building programme has been launched to disseminate knowledge of AI to all segments of society, beginning with state employees in order to make government operations more efficient and transparent. The government also created the National Council for Artificial Intelligence to monitor the application of the National AI Strategy across all sectors. This came in tandem with the passing of data protection legislation governing the relationship between data owners and users.
Regional, global rankings
Egypt currently ranks second in Africa — after Mauritius, according to a 2022 report on the readiness of governments to implement AI technology. Egypt comes 111th out of 194 countries. The 2021 Human Development Report for Egypt puts this country in 55th place in the Government Readiness for Artificial Intelligence index. The World Knowledge Index for 2021 shows that Egypt went up to 53rd place out of 154 countries.
AI national strategy
The national AI strategy entails education and training, making use of data in Egypt, and making that data available to the private sector. The latest AI technologies are being used to build smart cities and render existing ones smart according to international standards.
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has co-operated with various international companies to use AI applications and innovative solutions to develop government operations.
Egypt has also been selected for the position of Vice-Chair of the UNESCO expert group in charge of preparing recommendations related to the ethics of AI.
AI platform
Egypt has launched a special AI platform as the country’s official portal for news and details of AI projects.
New smart cities
Thirty-eight smart cities are being planned to meeting the needs of the public in all areas of life through technologies that save time and effort, stimulate learning and creativity.
So far, 14 smart cities (New Administrative Capital, New Alamein, New Mansoura, East Port Said, Nasser in West Assiout, West Qena, New Ismailia, New Rafah and Galala City) have been built on a network of smart facilities to manage and operate electricity, water and gas systems.
Enhancing healthcare delivery
AI-driven solutions have revolutionised healthcare from diagnosis to personalised treatment plans. AI is optimising patient care and improving clinical outcomes. Telemedicine platforms are bridging gaps in access to healthcare services, especially in remote areas, while AI-powered predictive analytics help healthcare providers anticipate disease outbreaks and allocate resources efficiently.
Agriculture and food security
In a country where agriculture is a vital sector, AI is proving to be a game-changer. Smart farming techniques, fuelled by AI, have optimised crop yields by analysing data from sensors and drones to make informed decisions about irrigation, fertilisation, and pest control. Egypt’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in food production has been bolstered by AI-driven insights that enhance productivity and resource management.
Upgrade of finance and banking
AI has reshaped the financial landscape in Egypt, making banking services more accessible and efficient. Chatbots provide instant customer support, while AI algorithms assess creditworthiness and manage risk. Automated investment platforms are democratising access to financial markets, enabling individuals to make informed investment decisions.
Transforming manufacturing and industry
The manufacturing sector is embracing AI to enhance quality production. Robots equipped with AI are performing intricate tasks, while predictive maintenance algorithms optimise equipment uptime.
Educational advances
AI is making strides in upgrading education and skills development in Egypt. Personalised learning platforms use AI to adapt content to individual learning styles, foster better engagement and understanding. AI-powered educational tools are closing learning gaps and enabling lifelong learning opportunities for all.
AI crucial for digitisation
Egypt’s digital transformation journey is inextricably linked with the boundless potential of Artificial Intelligence. From healthcare and agriculture to finance and education, AI is forging a new path of innovation, efficiency, and progress. As Egypt harnesses the transformative power of AI, the nation’s ability to solve complex challenges and embrace opportunities is being elevated, propelling the country towards a future of technological prowess and sustainable growth.
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