What is Egypt?
Egypt is a country located in the northeastern corner of Africa, with a rich and ancient history stretching back thousands of years. Famous for its archaeological landmarks like the pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Nile River, Egypt is one of the oldest civilizations in human history. Today, it is a regional power in North Africa and the Middle East with significant influence in global affairs.
Administrative Divisions
Egypt is divided into 27 governorates, each with its own local administration. The capital is Cairo, the largest city in the country.
Currency Details
- Currency Name: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
- Symbol: ج.م
- Subunit: 1 Pound = 100 Piastres
- Central Bank: Central Bank of Egypt
Type of Government
Egypt is a republic with a semi-presidential system. The President is the Head of State, and the Prime Minister serves as the Head of Government.
Detailed Hierarchy of Government Roles
Executive Branch
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| President | Head of State, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces | Oversees national security, foreign policy, and represents the country internationally. |
| Prime Minister | Appointed by the President | Manages domestic affairs and the day-to-day operations of the government. |
| Council of Ministers | Appointed by the President | Oversees various ministries and government departments. |
Legislative Branch
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| House of Representatives | Unicameral legislature | Enacts laws, approves the budget, and monitors the executive. |
Judicial Branch
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Constitutional Court | Highest judicial authority | Interprets the constitution and ensures the legality of laws. |
International Memberships
Egypt is a member of:
- United Nations (UN)
- Arab League
- African Union (AU)
- World Trade Organization (WTO)
- Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)
Military Structure
Egypt has one of the largest and most capable militaries in Africa, with substantial investments in defense and strategic alliances.
- Branches:
- Army
- Navy
- Air Force
- Air Defense Forces
- Central Security Forces
Emergency Numbers
- Police: 122
- Medical Emergency: 123
- Fire: 180
SWOT Analysis of Egypt
Strengths
- Ancient cultural heritage, with a major role in world history.
- Strategic location connecting Africa and the Middle East, controlling access to the Suez Canal.
- Growing economy, driven by sectors like tourism, energy, and manufacturing.
Weaknesses
- Political instability and occasional social unrest.
- High unemployment and poverty rates, especially among youth.
- Water scarcity and dependence on the Nile for agriculture.
Opportunities
- Expansion of the Suez Canal and international trade.
- Investment in renewable energy, especially solar power.
- Tourism recovery post-COVID, leveraging Egypt’s historical sites.
Threats
- Geopolitical tensions with neighboring countries.
- Climate change and water security issues.
- Terrorism and extremism, affecting national security.
Additional Information
- Official Language: Arabic
- Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET)
- National Anthem: “Bilady, Bilady, Bilady” (My Country, My Country, My Country)