Geneva: Minister of Communications and Information Technology Raafat Hindi continued his series of bilateral engagements at the World Summit on the Information Society Forum 2026, chaired by Egypt. He focused on expanding cooperation with Kenya and the World Bank Group in the realms of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and digital capacity building. In a significant development, he was present at the signing of a letter of intent between the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) to promote responsible AI governance in Egypt.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Hindi engaged in discussions with Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo Gitau. Their talks centered on strengthening bilateral cooperation in information and communications technology (ICT) and implementing the memorandum of understanding previously signed by the two nations.
The dialogue emphasized the transfer of Egypt's expertise in digital capacity building, particularly in software engineering and telecommunications equipment. Both parties explored collaboration in developing digital infrastructure, including fiber-optic networks, submarine cables, and cross-border connectivity. They also discussed enhancing digital literacy, boosting skills in young people and residents of remote areas, and providing training in emerging AI technologies.
In another key event, Hindi witnessed the signing of a letter of intent aimed at bolstering national capacities in responsible AI governance. This agreement will involve the development of an AI Sandbox in Egypt to provide a supervised regulatory framework for testing AI systems before broader deployment. The initiative seeks to ensure adherence to responsible AI principles, regulatory standards, and public-interest goals, while supporting the necessary institutional capacities for auditing and evaluation.
The letter of intent was signed by Hoda Baraka, Adviser to the Minister for Technological Skills Development, and Chitose Noguchi, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt, with UNDP Chief Digital Officer Robert Opp and UNDP Assistant Resident Representative in Egypt Abeer Shakweer in attendance.
During the signing ceremony, both parties discussed opportunities to enhance Egypt's competitiveness in the outsourcing industry, engage in global public digital infrastructure projects, and explore cooperation in quantum computing and emerging technologies.
Minister Hindi highlighted that the collaboration aligns with the priorities of Egypt's National Council for Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, and Emerging Technologies. He emphasized the transition from discussing responsible AI to its practical implementation and the necessity of developing national expertise in regulatory sandbox frameworks.
Chitose Noguchi noted the significant potential of artificial intelligence in supporting sustainable development, highlighting the need for responsible and inclusive regulatory frameworks. She underscored that collaboration with Egypt's communications ministry would enhance institutional capacities and governance tools to ensure a secure, equitable, and human-centric digital transformation.
In a separate meeting, Hindi met with Sangbu Kim, Vice President for Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence at the World Bank. They discussed further cooperation in digital transformation, integrating micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises into the digital economy, promoting innovation in government technology, and developing digital skills linked to employment.
Minister Hindi praised the World Bank's contributions to developing digital economies, noting their alignment with the objectives of Egypt's Digital Egypt strategy. This strategy emphasizes expanding digital government services, job creation, business support, and increasing the digital economy's impact on economic growth.
Additionally, he reviewed the ministry's initiatives to enhance Egypt's digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to improve digital services and economic opportunities. These efforts include digital skills development programs, support for freelance work, the growth of the outsourcing industry, and increased digital exports.