Arab Finance: Egypt has retained Africa’s top ranking for fixed internet speed for a fifth consecutive year and received Ookla’s Speedtest Award for the continent’s fastest fixed internet in the first half (H1) of 2026, according to a statement issued by the National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA).
The award was announced during Network X 2026, held in Vienna, Austria, from October 13 to 15. US-based network performance measurement company Ookla assessed fixed internet connections through its Speedtest platform, using technical indicators drawn from actual user experience to compare network speed and efficiency across African countries.
The NTRA attributed Egypt’s performance to investment in digital infrastructure, network upgrades, and nationwide expansion of fiber-optic coverage. These efforts aim to improve service quality, increase capacity to meet growing demand for telecommunications and data services, and support digital transformation.
The regulator also highlighted its work with telecommunications operators and service providers to track network performance, encourage infrastructure investment, and improve service efficiency. It said these regulatory and technical initiatives had helped sustain Egypt’s continental lead and strengthen the sector’s competitiveness.
NTRA CEO Mohamed Shamroukh said the recognition reflected progress in upgrading fixed internet networks and improving their efficiency, alongside broader efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure and telecommunications services.
He added that the award would encourage the authority to continue its network development plans and service providers to increase infrastructure spending, helping deliver better services while keeping pace with technological advances.
Shamroukh also praised Ookla’s use of international standards to measure telecommunications network performance. He said its indicators encouraged countries and providers to improve their networks and the user experience, reaffirming the NTRA’s commitment to regulatory and technical measures that raise service quality and strengthen Egypt’s regional and international standing in information and communications technology.
