Egypt’s economic reform efforts and the banking sector’s expanding role in sustainable development were key themes at Cairo ICT 2025, where policymakers and financial leaders convened to explore the intersection of technology, finance, and national development.
In a keynote address delivered via video, Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, highlighted the country’s progress on macroeconomic stability, structural reform, and private sector engagement.
Al-Mashat: Egypt’s Growth to Approach 5% by FY2025/26
Minister Al-Mashat stated that Egypt’s improving credit ratings and macroeconomic indicators are direct outcomes of strategic economic and structural reforms, with the government now focusing on real economy sectors such as industry, agriculture, technology, and logistics.
“The national economic narrative is rooted in productivity, inclusive growth, and long-term resilience,” she said. “We project that economic growth will reach close to 5% by the end of FY2025/26, supported by investment in infrastructure, human capital, and the digital economy.”
She also noted that since 2020, development financing to the private sector exceeded $16 billion, with 42% of this mobilized through the banking sector, reflecting its central role in financing Egypt’s transformation.
Ghada Tawfik: EGP 3.8 Billion in Bank’s CSR Budgets
During a panel focused on banking and community impact, Ghada Tawfik, Assistant Governor of the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) for Community Responsibility, revealed that Egyptian banks allocated EGP 3.8 billion to corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects in 2024, and EGP 3.3 billion by Q3 of 2025.
She emphasized the government’s confidence in the banking sector’s ability to deliver impactful development initiatives, particularly in healthcare, education, and economic empowerment.
“The Central Bank prioritizes initiatives that directly improve the lives of citizens,” said Tawfik. “For example, the redevelopment of the National Cancer Institute is nearing completion, with 95% progress in the northern building, and full delivery of the southern section and outpatient clinics.”
These efforts represent a practical model for state–bank collaboration in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Cairo ICT: Where Technology Meets Economic Strategy
Now in its 29th year, Cairo ICT is one of the region’s leading platforms for dialogue around digital transformation, financial innovation, and economic policy. The 2025 edition was held under the theme “Smart Economy, Secure Future”, attracting senior officials, CEOs of major banks and telecom companies, tech entrepreneurs, and global investors.
Participants explored how digital infrastructure and fintech can support Egypt’s development goals, with sessions on AI, cybersecurity, e-government, and banking for social impact.
As Egypt continues its shift toward a technology-enabled economy, Cairo ICT 2025 highlights how national strategy, financial institutions, and community investment intersect to shape a more resilient and inclusive economic future.
