Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Oman’s digital economy is entering a high-growth phase, contributing approximately RO 800 million to the GDP as of 2023. This progress stems from the National Digital Economy Programme (2021–2025), which focused on foundational infrastructure, including 100% residential high-speed broadband coverage and significant investments in AI (RO 79m+).
Omantel achieved a group net profit of OMR 371 million in 2025 (+87.7% YoY) and revenue of OMR 3.41 billion (+11.4%). Growth was driven by a 56.7% surge in ICT services and Zain Group contributions. The company declared a 55% dividend, supported by 5G expansion and a regulatory reduction in mobile service royalties.
Nigeria’s internet penetration reached 83.2% in January 2026, with 151.6 million subscribers. While 4G dominates at 53.41% market share, 5G remains at 3.94%. To bridge the digital divide, the GSMA G6 coalition is piloting $40 4G smartphones, supporting a shift away from 2G and 3G networks.
Pan-African leader Netis Group has acquired a majority stake in Netcom Technologies Morocco to expand its portfolio into critical IT and digital security. This strategic move, backed by international investors like the IFC, aims to scale Netcom’s systems integration expertise across Netis’s 16-country African network, driving regional digital transformation.
Converted has acquired the Egyptian fashion marketplace Mitcha to launch an AI-driven “Ads-to-Orders” platform. The deal integrates real-time sales data into advertising campaigns, allowing merchants to optimize for revenue over clicks. Mitcha founder Hilda Louca joins Converted’s leadership to drive regional expansion across Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
Orascom Group, led by Naguib Sawiris, is exploring investment opportunities in Togo following high-level talks in Lomé. Backed by a $170 million expansion fund, the Egyptian conglomerate is evaluating projects in infrastructure, tech, and construction. The move signals growing international investor confidence in Togo’s economic prospects and potential for large-scale job creation.
Amber IT is deploying 500 Wi-Fi zones across Bangladesh in 2026, offering free access to its subscribers and low-cost coupons for others. Partnering with small businesses like tea stalls for hosting, the project aims to support students and freelancers while enhancing digital inclusion in both urban and rural public spaces.
Algeria is undergoing scheduled maintenance on the critical SMW4 submarine cable on March 10-11, 2026. Aimed at the power supply system, the work may cause temporary internet disruptions between Annaba and Palermo. Authorities have activated alternative routes to ensure service continuity and emphasize the intervention’s role in long-term network reliability.
PM Adviser Rehan Asad has unveiled a 30-year ICT roadmap for Bangladesh, prioritizing high-speed connectivity, digital sovereignty, and AI adoption. Key initiatives include free airport Wi-Fi by Eid, a review of 2025 telecom policies, and a crackdown on illegal devices to attract FDI. The plan aims to create 1 million tech-related jobs.
VEON’s Jazz secured 190 MHz in Pakistan’s 5G auction, the largest share among bidders, for approximately $239.5 million. The auction tripled the nation’s available spectrum, enabling Jazz to enhance 4G quality and launch 5G services in major cities by late 2026, supporting a transition to AI-driven digital services for 100 million users.