Message from the Minister The world is witnessing a revolution in information and communications technology (ICT) the scope of which stretches far beyond the realm of the sector itself. No country seeking real, sustainable development and progress can hope to achieve these aims without a strong ICT sector in place to drive the necessary change. In the midst of this revolution in information and communications technology, Egypt witnessed a different kind of revolution at the beginning of 2011: a peaceful, popular political and social revolution. In the 25 January Revolution, ICT tools and systems, and the use of social networks in particular, played a major role in events. This revolution changed not only Egypt’s future path but also the way Egyptians view ICT tools and systems, which have created an important platform for expression of views and in public affairs. Various factors have contributed to boosting the role of the internet in politics. In Egypt, internet access has expanded significantly over recent years among all sectors of society, particularly among youth. Indeed, there has been a clear transformation in internet usage patterns across the Arab world in recent years, with a marked increase in use of the internet as a means and arena for political activity. The ICT sector, in the next phase, should focus on adapting ICTs to find solutions to issues of concern to the community. While this process has indeed already begun, the sector should develop a community vision based on the principle that development should occur not only in the public service sector but also in the managerial 2 3 approach of the state and its constituent bodies. This will allow Egypt to achieve a transformation embracing digital citizenship in a technological society that in its own way will be as impressive and far reaching as the change brought about by the 25 January Revolution. I am looking forward to supporting the start of a new era for the ICT sector in Egypt, building on past successes and lessons learnt. I am confident that more Egyptians will join the information community, working together to establish the foundations of a new economy based on knowledge and sustainable development. There are, of course, numerous factors to consider in maximizing the role of the ICT sector in development. In this new strategy, we have therefore addressed a broad range of actions in a framework of collective action, targeting greater success and progress for the Egyptian ICT sector and for the other sectors of the economy. I would like to express my gratitude at being offered the opportunity to take over the leadership of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) at such a critical stage in Egypt’s history. I am pleased to present the National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017, which results from the vision and efforts of an integrated team working in collaboration with various actors in the community. I am honored to present this document to you on behalf of the ministry, and to be part of the team responsible for not only supporting the future development of the national ICT sector, but also for shaping up new Egypt.