Egypt - Hossam Heiba, CEO of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), announced that the Authority is developing a new initiative designed to help Egyptian startups access foreign markets and secure improved financing opportunities. The move, he said, reflects Egypt’s growing role as a leading hub for startup activity in Africa and the Middle East. The GAFI chief underlined the pivotal role of entrepreneurship and innovation in enhancing Egypt’s economic competitiveness. Reviewing GAFI’s efforts to strengthen the startup ecosystem, Heiba highlighted the Authority’s permanent unit for startups and entrepreneurship. It also contributes to the technical secretariat of Egypt’s ministerial group for entrepreneurship, ensuring policy alignment and stronger institutional support.