Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s telecom operators invested Rs. 267.6 billion over three years, with Jazz leading at Rs. 95.45 billion, followed by Zong, Ufone, and Telenor. Despite this, service quality gaps persist, prompting PTA to issue warnings and show-cause notices. Over 65,000 complaints were filed, mainly about data services.
Yango has launched a new Transport Service in Muscat, integrating public bus routes into its Superapp to simplify mobility. Covering 13 city and 2 intercity routes, the free feature adds to Yango’s existing services in Oman, including ride-hailing and delivery.
Algorithmic warfare is reshaping digital landscapes across the Arab and Islamic world, targeting youth identity and societal cohesion. While these campaigns are a threat, awareness, digital literacy, and algorithmic accountability can build resilience.
Oman has chosen ‘Shahin’ as the official name for its national EV charging app, integrating all charging operators into one platform. Backed by MTCIT, the initiative supports net-zero goals, hydrogen mobility, and potential regional expansion, with more than 150 chargers and 1,500 EVs already in use.
Nepal recorded Rs 98.43 trillion in electronic transactions in FY 2024/25, a 71% jump from the previous year. RTGS dominated with Rs 74.9 trillion, while mobile banking, QR codes, and e-commerce payments also grew, reflecting strong momentum toward a cashless economy.
MENA startup funding hit $783M in July 2025, surpassing last year’s total in just seven months. Saudi Arabia and the UAE dominated with two unicorns—Ninja and XPANCEO—while Iraq and Morocco surprised with breakout deals. Deeptech and e-commerce led sector growth, but the gender funding gap remains severe.
The WTO praised Morocco for its leadership in trade, sustainability, and women’s empowerment, citing its role since the 1994 Marrakech Agreement. Success stories like Doum for Women highlight local impact, while new digital trade and investment agreements promise further opportunities for Morocco’s economy.
Morocco has joined the world’s top 15 automotive producers, reaching one million vehicles in 2025. Backed by Renault, Stellantis, and major port infrastructure, the Kingdom is Africa’s automotive leader and a growing competitor to Europe, combining investment appeal with a skilled workforce.
Yango Tech met Pakistan’s IT Minister Shaza Fatima to explore AI partnerships and digital transformation opportunities. The collaboration aims to strengthen Pakistan’s IT ecosystem, boost exports, and deliver AI-driven solutions through Yango’s services spanning mobility, delivery, retail, and B2B tech.
Orange Jordan and Proparco concluded their Aqaba Coding Academy partnership with a 100% graduation rate. Over 1,000 youth have benefited since launch, with 80% employed. The program fosters digital skills, startup growth, and Aqaba’s vision as a regional innovation hub.