The World Bank on Tuesday praised Egypt's launch of its national Smart Cities Strategy, calling it a milestone in putting citizens at the centre of urban development, according to a statement from the ministry of housing. The strategy, unveiled by the ministry of housing, will initially focus on new cities and aims to improve services, integrate technology, and enhance sustainability. Stephane Guimbert, World Bank's Director for Egypt, Yemen, and Djibouti, said the new strategy marks a landmark that places citizens at the heart of urban transformation, the statement said. Smart cities are not just about devices and technology, Guimbert added. They are about better services in daily life – faster transport, safer streets, energy-efficient buildings, and easier access to jobs. The World Bank will continue to work with Egypt's ministry of housing, the New Urban Communities Authority (NUCA), and Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) to help turn the plan into concrete results, Guimbert said. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
