Egypt to offer ‘Citizen Bonds’ for households on 22 Feb.

Egypt’s government will begin offering a new savings instrument known as the “Citizen Bonds” through post offices nationwide starting Sunday, 22 February, in an effort to encourage household savings and expand access to secure investment options.

The bonds, announced by the Ministry of Finance on Thursday, will provide a fixed monthly return over an 18-month period and can be redeemed easily, according to Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk. The instrument, Kouchouk said, is designed to give citizens a safe way to invest directly in government securities.

The move reflects a broader push to widen participation in formal financial systems, particularly among people who may not use banks. By distributing the bonds through Egypt Post’s extensive network of branches in cities, towns, and villages, the Ministry of Finance looks to make the product accessible across the country.

Dalia El-Baz, chair of Egypt Post, said the postal service was selected as the exclusive outlet during the initial phase, citing its operational reach and role in supporting national financial policies. Post offices will provide the service under guidelines set by the Ministry of Finance to ensure straightforward procedures and reliable service, she said.

The new product is part of a wider effort to diversify government funding sources, promote local-currency savings, and strengthen financial inclusion. For many Egyptians, the bonds may offer a rare combination: a predictable monthly return and a low-risk entry point into formal investment — at a time when economic uncertainty has made financial security an increasing concern for households.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English