NTRA Signs Cooperation Protocol with National Council for Persons with Disabilities to Enhance Digital Services for People with Disabilities

In line with Egypt’s commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and fostering their inclusion in the digital society, the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) has signed a cooperation protocol with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) to strengthen digital services tailored for users with disabilities in Egypt’s telecom market.

The protocol was signed by Eng. Mohamed Shmroukh, CEO of NTRA, and Dr. Iman Karim, General Supervisor of the NCPD. It establishes joint mechanisms for collaboration, including the exchange of expertise, coordination to ensure accessibility of telecom services in line with international standards, awareness campaigns, joint workshops, and an effective framework for addressing complaints from users with different types of disabilities—particularly hearing and visual impairments.

Eng. Shmroukh emphasized that the agreement marks a pivotal step toward digital inclusion, noting that NTRA is leveraging advanced technologies and innovative initiatives to ensure equal access to services for all segments of society. He stressed that enabling persons with disabilities is not only a humanitarian duty but also an economic and social necessity, as their integration into the workforce contributes to productivity and sustainable development.

Dr. Karim highlighted the council’s role in safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities and promoting supportive policies in accordance with Law No. 10 of 2018. She underscored that this partnership reinforces the state’s commitment to guaranteeing equal access to ICT services, ensuring the availability of assistive technologies, and creating a safe and inclusive digital environment.

NTRA has already introduced a series of initiatives for persons with disabilities, including a 50% discount on mobile bundles, priority service at operator branches, accessible websites and apps, and a video-based sign language complaints center for the hearing-impaired. The authority has also provided contracts in Braille for the visually impaired, waived certain e-wallet transaction fees, and enforced accessibility standards in retail outlets to facilitate access for people with physical disabilities.

These efforts position Egypt as a regional leader in inclusive telecom policies, reflecting the vision of ensuring that technology serves as a tool for empowerment and social equity.