The Daily FT-CICRA Cybersecurity Summit 2025 highlighted the growing need for securing critical infrastructure against rising cyber threats. Experts from Google Cloud, Huawei, and MillenniumIT ESP emphasized the importance of localized defense strategies, AI-powered threat detection, and global collaboration in tackling cybersecurity challenges across sectors like telecom and finance.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has sold Thiqah Business Services to Elm for 3.4 billion Saudi riyals ($907 million). This sale is part of PIF’s strategy to strengthen reserves and focus on local investments in anticipation of Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation under the Vision 2030 plan.
Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain of Pakistan met with Turkish Ambassador Irfan Nazir Oglu to discuss enhancing religious harmony, respect for humanity, and job opportunities for Pakistani workers in Turkiye. They also discussed expanding educational projects and machinery supplies to Pakistan, strengthening ties between the two countries.
The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication, chaired by Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan, held a meeting to discuss the Personal Data Protection Bill, Starlink operations, and telecom companies’ revenues. The Committee also reviewed the performance of the Telecom Foundation and its future direction in line with government policies.
Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) has launched a programme to integrate 4IR technologies into the industrial sector. The initiative aims to enhance global competitiveness, improve factory efficiency, reduce costs, and create job opportunities, aligning with Oman’s Industrial Strategy 2040 and Vision 2040.
The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation (MoHERI) in Oman has partnered with Digital Talent Company to implement a change management framework as part of the national digital transformation plan. This initiative aims to promote a culture of digital change and enhance operational efficiency in government institutions, aligning with Vision 2040.
Vodafone has captured 10% of the Omani mobile market since its entry in 2022, largely due to its investments in network quality, competitive pricing, and strong digital strategies. The company leads in 4G speeds and has gained market share through customer churn, particularly from Omantel, with a focus on 5G services.
MTN Nigeria has been granted a 10-year extension for its 800MHz spectrum license by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This renewal solidifies MTN’s position in the market, enhances service quality, and ensures better connectivity for consumers. The decision supports the company’s growth strategy amid economic challenges.
Nigeria’s telecom companies face a 50% tariff increase approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The hike will raise the cost of calls and data bundles, adding pressure on Nigerians already struggling with inflation and rising living costs.
eSewa celebrates its 16th anniversary in 2025, marking its pivotal role in transforming Nepal’s digital economy. From a beta launch in 2010, it now offers over 2,000 services, impacting millions of users. Future plans include saving and investment options, enhanced fraud detection, and expanding financial inclusion across Nepal.
