(Ecofin Agency) - This meeting marks a milestone in Egypt’s growing digital maturity and attractiveness to international capital. Through strategic public-private collaboration, the country is well-positioned to lead Africa’s next wave of digital growth, driven by innovation, connectivity, and talent.

Egypt’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Dr. Amr Talaat, met with Mr. Shamil Josub, CEO of the global Vodacom Group, and Mr. Mohamed Kamal Abdullah, CEO and Managing Director of Vodafone Egypt, alongside a high-level delegation from South Africa. The meeting, announced on April 14, focused on exploring investment opportunities in Egypt’s ICT sector and enhancing cooperation between both countries.

Dr. Talaat emphasized Egypt’s commitment to building a favorable investment climate through robust governance, regulatory reforms, and active private sector engagement. “Egypt’s strong digital infrastructure and skilled workforce make it a prime destination for ICT investments,” he said, highlighting the country’s strategic efforts to boost digital transformation, promote technological innovation, and strengthen the electronics and outsourcing industries.

The South African delegation included officials from the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), an asset manager that manages a diverse investment portfolio across the continent, and the Government Pension Fund.

Mr. Josub praised the investment climate in Egypt and expressed Vodacom’s intent to grow its presence in the market. “Egypt offers tremendous potential in digital transformation and infrastructure development,” he said.

The South African delegation expressed optimism about Egypt’s investment prospects, particularly in data centers and cybersecurity, and signaled intent to begin formal steps toward entering the local market.

Egypt is actively positioning itself as a leader in the digital economy. The country ranks ninth out of 47 African countries in ICT development, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), earning a score of 76.8 out of 100. The ranking underscores the country’s growing digital readiness and competitiveness on the continent. It strengthens its case as a prime destination for international digital investment.

By attracting multinational players like Vodacom and engaging with large investors like South Africa’s Public Investment Corporation (PIC), Egypt is signaling its readiness for high-value, cross-border digital partnerships.

Hikmatu Bilali