Pakistan’s Minister of State for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, introduced the ‘Digital Nation Pakistan’ initiative, aiming to create a unified digital framework focusing on economy, governance, and society. The initiative will lead to the establishment of a National Digital Commission and a Digital Authority, promoting national digitization.
Oman saw a dramatic rise in mobile payments in 2023, with mobile transactions growing by 700% and the value processed through the MPCSS reaching OMR 1.44 billion. The surge highlights the country’s shift towards digital financial solutions, driven by the Central Bank’s modernization efforts and broader adoption of secure payment systems.
Ncell Foundation has partnered with the ICT Award 2024 as a “Supported By” partner, celebrating Nepal’s tech advancements and honoring women in ICT. The 9th edition of the award will take place on December 20, with Ncell presenting the Ncell Woman Icon ICT Award, including a cash prize of Rs 300,000.
Nepal Telecom has launched a new communication tower in the Palanta rural municipality of Kalikot, aiming to enhance connectivity in a previously disconnected area. The tower will provide 4G and 5G services to 10% of the population, with plans to expand coverage across surrounding municipalities, improving rural telecommunication.
Morocco’s z.systems raised $1 million in funding to reshape the region’s FMCG retail landscape. The platform, designed to modernize B2B trade and distribution, offers streamlined solutions for small retailers. z.systems plans to expand beyond FMCG into other sectors like construction and electronics, empowering mom-and-pop stores with better efficiency.
TotalEnergies and Hutchinson have partnered on a solar energy project in Morocco, aiming to reduce Hutchinson’s environmental impact and improve energy efficiency. The project will feature a 1.7 MWp solar capacity with 2,850 PV modules, generating 2,590 MWh of clean energy annually, supporting Morocco’s renewable energy ambitions.
stc sponsored the Kuwait Transparency Society’s forum on governance and environmental sustainability, focusing on the private sector’s role in driving sustainability. The event, held at the National Library Theater, highlighted ESG initiatives and green economy advancements. stc emphasized its commitment to sustainability through its “Small Move, Big Impact” program.
Kuwait’s Ministry of Finance signed an agreement with Microsoft to enhance digital transformation and financial systems through AI and cloud services. The partnership will focus on upgrading financial services, improving government connections, and providing technical support. Joint workshops will be held to develop collaboration plans for achieving the Ministry’s objectives.
Orange Jordan sponsored the “Towards Digital and Sustainable Media” workshop at the Innovation Hub, aimed at enhancing the skills of journalists, entrepreneurs, and startup founders. The event, in collaboration with Madraj and AJMI, focused on launching sustainability and digital media projects. It highlighted growth, leadership, and partnership opportunities in the media sector.
Pakistan has seen a 28% increase in mobile internet speed over the past year, with speeds rising from 15.65 Mbps to 20.02 Mbps. The PTA reports a 24.2% surge in mobile internet usage and highlights positive growth in broadband and telecom subscribers, despite challenges in global internet speed rankings.
