CBE, MCIT partner to facilitate government e-payments in Egypt

Egypt - The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) signed a cooperation protocol with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) to facilitate the provision of government services digitally, Daily News reported.

The deal was signed by Tarek Amer, Governor of the CBE, and Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology.

The cooperation protocol aims to activate the use of the unified payment card “Meeza” for digital government services and the mobile wallet on the Digital Egypt platform. It will also see the launch the “Meeza” card in Ismailia governorate as a pilot project, after which the launch will take place across Egypt.

The central bank affirmed the importance of developing government payments, because of its positive impact on citizens in obtaining government services in an easy and effective manner.

This comes in line with Egypt’s Vision 2030 in providing government services in a digital form, as part of the government’s plan to create a digital society.

The government services card will be issued with a smart chip, and using the latest international technologies to ensure the security of all transactions. It also contains contactless technology, which can greatly help in processing queues at service delivery outlets.

The unified citizen card will also be accepted in the payment of all governmental and non-governmental payments. This contributes to achieving financial inclusion and the transition to a society less dependent on banknotes.

The unified card for government services enables citizens to obtain health insurance services and distinguished subsidies services. This takes place using secure digital mechanisms and the provision of payment services through one smart card.