Iraq’s iDATA platform, supported by the UNDP Accelerator Lab, is transforming data access and usage across key sectors. It aggregates government and World Bank data into interactive dashboards, empowering policymakers, researchers, and entrepreneurs. The platform aims to address challenges like youth unemployment and education reform while fostering sustainable development.
Egypt’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has signed an MoU with Microsoft to enhance the country’s AI capabilities, targeting the training of 100,000 individuals in AI technologies. The agreement aims to empower local talent, promote responsible AI use, and support Egypt’s National AI Strategy for 2025–2030.
Bekia, an Egyptian startup, has developed a digital platform that incentivizes recycling by allowing users to exchange waste for goods and services. With over 75,000 users, the platform focuses on empowering women and improving waste management in underserved neighborhoods. Bekia aims to expand its green tech impact through key partnerships.
BD has launched the HemoSphere Alta, an advanced hemodynamic monitoring system powered by AI. Featuring innovative tools like the cerebral autoregulation index (CAI) and hypotension prediction software, the platform helps clinicians proactively manage blood pressure instability, improving patient care and outcomes during medical procedures.
The Bangladesh government has committed to reforming the internet sector by abolishing policies enabling shutdowns, reducing costs, and improving service quality. Key measures include deregulation, a new network topology, and expanded fibre infrastructure. The move aims to enhance digital access, affordability, and efficiency for businesses and consumers.
The Bahrain Ministry of Industry and Commerce has urged businesses to comply with Resolution No. (43) of 2024 by opening commercial accounts and adopting reliable e-payment systems before the June 13 deadline. The resolution aims to improve financial processes and enhance transparency in the kingdom’s commercial sector.
The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture in Bahrain signed an MoU with Batelco to enhance digital infrastructure, including connectivity, voice communication, and smart security. The partnership will focus on providing technical expertise and innovative solutions to improve municipal services, with Batelco offering support in smart city infrastructure.
Tlemcen University’s “TECH INNOVATORS” event on April 20, 2025, focused on digital entrepreneurship and technological transformation. The event featured conferences and workshops with key speakers, including the Minister of Startups and President of the Algerian Confederation of Citizen Employers. It emphasized the importance of partnerships to support youth innovation.
The Bangladesh government expects mobile operators to reduce internet prices soon after wholesale price cuts at key distribution layers. Policy support and infrastructure improvements, including access to Dark Fiber and DWDM, aim to lower costs for consumers. Mobile operators are urged to pass on these benefits to ease inflationary pressures.
Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, met with UNDP’s Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari to discuss enhancing cooperation in infrastructure, digital innovation, and artificial intelligence. The partnership aims to support Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
