45 villages in Menoufiya connected with fibre optic cables: Minister

The number represents more than half of the 81 villages targeted by the Decent Life (Haya Karima) initiative in the governorate.

The Decent Life initiative aims to develop infrastructure; boost economic, social and environmental standards; cultivate human capital by investing in it; and improve access to crucial services, thus enabling rural Egyptians to lead a dignified life.

Furthermore, Talaat added that 47 portable towers have been built out of a goal of 85, and 28 towers have been improved to enhance the communication services offered to citizens.

The minister also visited the Digital Egypt Creativity Centre located at Menoufiya University during the tour. The centre offers technical training and enhances technological skills for students, graduates and youth in the governorate.

Its goal is to equip them with the necessary skills for the local and global labour market, as well as establish a conducive environment for digital innovation and entrepreneurship.

According to the minister, the communications and information technology sector has been the top-growing industry in Egypt for five years. This is thanks to the projects carried out to achieve digital transformation, the job opportunities it has created and the growth in digital exports.

The communications ministry reported in October 2022 that the number of mobile internet users in Egypt had increased by 77.9 percent, from 39 million in December 2019 to 69.4 million.