Technology centers affiliated with the Ministry of Local Development…the engine of digital transformation in Egypt

Technological centers affiliated with the Ministry of Local Development…the engine of digital transformation in Egypt

There is no doubt that we have entered the era of digitalization, where information has become faster than lightning, which casts a shadow over a modern form of digital transformation. These are technological centers. These centers can achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a profound and highly impactful way, as they are based on a sustainable future vision for the lives of Egyptians.

Therefore, within the framework of its national agenda “Egypt Vision 2030” – Egypt seeks to enhance comprehensive digital transformation efforts, by building technological centers affiliated with the Ministry of Local Development; To be a vital and pivotal element in this ambitious national endeavor, and to become modern gateways in all governorates of the Republic. Aiming to facilitate government procedures, combat corruption, and achieve social justice through local services provided to all categories of the Egyptian people.

From here,Earth Defenders FoundationIn this article, you will discuss the importance of the technological centers affiliated with the Ministry of Local Development and their strategic role in serving Egyptians according to the standards of digital transformation, reviewing the various services provided by these centers, and the achievements that have been achieved on the ground.

One Stop Shop System

In 2019, Egypt took radical steps to rehabilitate local administrations at the level of all governorates of the Republic within what is called “Developed Central System”; In order to develop the administrative apparatus concerned with providing various services to citizens; In order to achieve governmental transparency, and to achieve the goals on which the axes of Egypt’s Vision 2030 were based.

This vision began with the “one-stop-shop” system, which separates the service provider from the service seeker. To reduce the time required to obtain it. Not only that, but this system was helpful in generating periodic reports that provide accurate data to decision makers. So that they can follow the progress of work and enhance government performance.

Facilitating procedures and expanding access

Based on the automation and one-stop-shop systems, technology centers are a comprehensive point of contact for citizens. In order to obtain a wide range of local services, these technological centers then developed to provide approximately 186 different services, covering the needs of citizens and companies alike.

The role of these technology centers was not limited to fixed sites only, but also extended to include mobile technology centers, which provide about 140 local services. Including mobile vehicles equipped with the latest information systems devices and connected to the citizen services provision system via a secure and fast network. So that citizens do not have to go personally to fixed headquarters.

Strategic vision for better service

The objectives of the technology centers go beyond simply providing services, to include a more comprehensive vision that aims to bring about a radical transformation in the relationship between citizens and local government agencies. The most prominent of these goals are the following:

Facilitating citizens’ access to government services

By simplifying procedures and reducing the time and effort required to complete transactions; Which provides a smooth and comfortable experience for all citizens.

Combat corruption and achieve social justice

Any potential corruption is combated by separating the service seeker from the service provider, and mechanizing the procedures, in a way that reduces corrupt practices and ensures equal access to services regardless of nepotism or favoritism.

Improving the business environment

By providing fast automated services; Thus, enhancing efforts to attract investments and improving the business climate, which reflects positively on the local economy.

Achieving digital transformation

Through digital transformation, Egypt is working to digitize government services, and develop the necessary digital infrastructure for this, in addition tolicensing services, such as:

• Construction or demolition permits.
• Request to obtain a certificate of the site’s validity from a planning perspective.
• Licenses to establish and operate mobile phone stations.
• Licensing for installation and operation of elevators.
• Licensing for commercial and industrial shops and other establishments.

Technological centers distinguished projects

The system of technology centers affiliated with the Ministry of Local Development has witnessed tangible development and clear achievements, the most notable of which are:

Increase the volume of services provided

From 2016 until the end of 2023, the number of applications submitted through the developed technological centers reached 16 million applications, with a completion rate of about 70% within the scheduled dates.

Infrastructure development

In cooperation with the Ministry of Planning and Local Affairs in the governorates of the Republic, local units were developed and mechanized, with the establishment of technological centers, the number of which reached 318 fixed technological centers in 2032, when – during the year 2024 – more than 6 million applications were recorded; This reflects a noticeable increase in the rates of citizens’ dependence on technological centers.

Today, under the leadership of Dr. Manal Awad, “Minister of Local Development,” technological centers have become more dependent on advanced technologies, and through inspection visits carried out by the Minister, any potential delay in completing citizens’ transactions is monitored, and the resolution of complaints related to occupancy and infringements is also accelerated in coordination between the Digital Transformation Department and the Inspection Sector; Thus, the Ministry of Local Development ensures the continued provision of services to citizens with the highest efficiency.

Dr. Manal Awad also continues to follow up on the specialized committees, which work to evaluate the efficiency of electronic devices and digital networks, and provide the necessary periodic maintenance, while holding accountable negligent employees who may cause disruption to citizens’ files and requests.

From what was previously stated,The Earth Guards Foundation confirms that technological centers are not only an administrative step, but rather a radical societal transformation, a sustainable transformation that enhances the concepts of social justice and institutional transparency. Because these technology centers affiliated with the Ministry of Local Development are a practical model of the positive results that investment in digital infrastructure can achieve that improve the lives of citizens and develop their national economy.