Public sector innovation and e-government

The ongoing transition in Egypt has highlighted the strategic importance of new and empowering uses of information and communication technologies (ICTs) by government, citizens and business. To consolidate its democratic transition, Egypt needs to continue to move forward with public sector reforms. A better use of ICTs in the public sector can help achieve this goal.

The “OECD E-Government Review of Egypt” assesses Egyptian e-government policies and implementation, and makes recommendations for future actions. The review was conducted from May 2011 to October 2012.

The report highlights Egypt’s progress and proposes that to enhance the use of ICTs in the public sector, Egypt should:

•    focus on the added value of using ICTs, for example by ensuring uptake of online services, increasing awareness of their availability, and enhancing the deployment of mobile platforms;

•    improve co-ordination of e-government policies across the government by clarifying responsibilities, formalizing co-ordination mechanisms and monitoring progress and impact;

•    ensure and consolidate implementation capacities by boosting skills at all levels of government and by finding a common approach to managing ICT projects;

•    use ICTs to support open government initiatives, particularly in the areas of transparency and access to information, the fight against corruption, accountability, and citizens’ participation and trust.

To read the assessment and proposals for action, click here

Ousmane Aly DIALLO

Wikiprogress Africa Coordinator