The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Banque Misr have jointly extended a syndicated loan of approximately US$ 80 million to Orange Egypt to support its acquisition of a 5G mobile licence from the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority. The loan comprises €39 million from EBRD and US$ 40 million from Banque Misr’s Dubai branch.
The financing will enable Orange Egypt to upgrade its telecommunications infrastructure, rolling out 5G services that promise faster data speeds, reduced latency, and enhanced digital offerings for consumers and businesses. The network modernization is also expected to significantly reduce CO2 emissions by over 1.7 million tonnes annually, reflecting a commitment to sustainable growth.
Jean-Marc Peterschmitt, EBRD’s Managing Director for the Corporate Sector, emphasized the project’s role in strengthening Egypt’s digital infrastructure and boosting connectivity nationwide. Mohamed Khairat, Head of Corporate Banking and Syndicated Loans at Banque Misr, highlighted the collaboration’s contribution to Egypt’s economy and Orange Egypt’s sustainable growth.
Banque Misr’s Dubai branch participation aligns with its strategy to leverage international branches for regional presence and facilitate cross-border financing, as noted by Khaled Nabil Khorshed, Head of Wholesale Banking at Banque Misr UAE.
Orange Egypt CFO Mohamed Sayed expressed pride in partnering with EBRD and Banque Misr, noting the investment as a sign of international confidence in Egypt’s economy and a key step toward advancing digital services in education, healthcare, and smart cities.
Orange Egypt, a subsidiary of the French telecom operator Orange, has been active in Egypt since 1998, providing mobile, fixed-line, and IPTV services. Since 2012, EBRD has invested over €13.2 billion in Egypt through more than 200 projects, supporting economic growth and SMEs.
