Ahmed Rostom Assumes Post as Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Pledges Stronger Government Coordination and Private Sector Engagement

Following his constitutional oath before President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, Dr Ahmed Rostom proceeded to the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development at the New Administrative Capital to formally assume office and begin reviewing key policy files and affiliated entities, at a time marked by renewed emphasis on accelerating structural reform and enhancing institutional performance.

Rostom stressed his commitment to fostering a unified team spirit within the ministry while strengthening coordination with various ministries and state institutions to ensure policy coherence and the effective implementation of national priorities. He noted that the directives issued to the new cabinet by the President constitute a clear operational roadmap, requiring each ministry to develop comprehensive plans outlining strategic objectives, measurable indicators, implementation mechanisms, financing frameworks, and performance evaluation benchmarks, all subject to continuous monitoring and review. He further highlighted the importance of upholding principles of citizenship, equality, and non discrimination in public policy execution.

Improving economic conditions stands at the forefront of the minister’s agenda, alongside the continued implementation of the State Ownership Policy through tangible measures aimed at expanding private sector participation in economic activity, strengthening investment dynamics, and supporting sustainable growth.

Dr Rostom brings more than twenty five years of professional experience spanning international development finance and domestic economic policymaking. At the World Bank, he served as Senior Financial Sector Specialist, leading strategic teams across East Africa and South Asia and managing multi billion dollar development portfolios.

Among his most notable achievements is leading the development and financing of infrastructure projects within the COMESA region with investments totaling 400 million dollars. He also founded the first Green Investment Fund and established a Renewable Energy Fund exceeding 500 million dollars in East Africa. His work further included designing innovative financing solutions for development programs, ranging from green finance and Islamic finance instruments to tailored mechanisms supporting small and medium enterprises.

On the national level, Rostom served as Assistant Minister of Investment between 2007 and 2009, playing a central role in implementing the Financial Sector Reform Program in its two phases. He contributed to the establishment of the Financial Regulatory Authority and headed international cooperation and liaison with the Anti Money Laundering Unit at the Central Bank of Egypt. In cooperation with the World Bank, he also oversaw the design of divestment and economic empowerment policies.

Rostom holds a PhD in Economics from George Washington University, a Master’s degree from the University of York in the United Kingdom, and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Cairo University. He has received eleven international excellence awards from the World Bank in recognition of his leadership in designing development programs with sustainable economic impact.

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