In an accolade that solidifies Egypt’s position as a digital leader in Africa, the country has been awarded the title of having the fastest fixed internet on the continent for 2024. The award, granted by Ookla, the global authority on internet speed testing, was received by Minister of Communications and Information Technology Amr Talaat at the prestigious Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona.
The award ceremony was graced by notable figures such as Ookla President and CEO Stephen Bye and Mohamed Nasr, CEO of Telecom Egypt, highlighting the nation’s commitment to advancing its digital capabilities. Minister Talaat emphasized the critical role of robust internet services in Egypt’s digital strategy, underscoring ongoing efforts to bolster the country’s digital infrastructure.
A cornerstone of this strategy is the ambitious project to replace copper cables with fibre optic networks in rural regions through the Haya Karima initiative. This project aims to deliver high-speed internet to approximately 60 million people across 4,500 villages, representing a substantial leap in rural connectivity.
With an investment of $3.5 billion in digital infrastructure, Egypt has achieved a dramatic increase in average fixed internet speeds, rising from 5.4 Mbps in late 2017 to a remarkable 80.3 Mbps in early 2025. This achievement has maintained Egypt’s top position in Africa for three consecutive years, reflecting the country’s strategic focus on digital transformation.
Beyond accolades, Minister Talaat’s presence at MWC 2025 facilitated discussions with international tech leaders like HPE’s Hiko Meyer and NVIDIA’s Roni Vashisht. These talks explored potential collaborations in artificial intelligence, startup support, and capacity building, further cementing Egypt’s role as a key player in the global digital landscape.
Egypt’s recognition by Ookla and its proactive initiatives illustrate a steadfast dedication to enhancing digital infrastructure. As the country continues to forge partnerships and invest in technology, it paves the way for an interconnected and technologically advanced future, reinforcing its status as a digital pioneer in Africa.
