The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT) in Afghanistan has mandated that mobile phone importers secure licenses from the Afghanistan Telecom Regulatory Authority (ATRA). This new regulation aims to prevent the import of counterfeit phones and ensure proper registration of IMEI numbers to safeguard citizens’ devices and streamline procedures.
Omantel has partnered with TeKnowledge to launch an AI and data science skilling program aimed at equipping its employees with advanced digital skills. The initiative supports Oman’s digital transformation and economic diversification, positioning Omantel as a leader in AI-powered services while promoting sustainable growth and innovation.
Algeria has broken ground on an AI data center in Oran, aiming to boost technological access for researchers and startups. The facility is part of the country’s broader strategy to grow its AI sector, contributing 7% to its GDP by 2027, and positioning Algeria as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation.
Telecommunications networks in Makkah and Madinah performed exceptionally during Ramadan, handling over 320 million calls. The 5G coverage reached 98% in Makkah and 99% in Madinah. Mobile data usage exceeded global averages, with speeds reaching 210 Mbps in Makkah and 278 Mbps in Madinah, ensuring seamless communication for worshippers.
e& UAE has deployed Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) to enhance its optical network with ultra-high-speed 400G connectivity, supporting 10Gb home services and AI data center hubs. This deployment doubles its data transmission capacity to 1.6 Tb/s per wavelength, reinforcing the company’s digital transformation and AI readiness.
Sri Lanka’s Central Bank is hosting a digital payments promotion event in Nuwara Eliya to encourage mobile payment app registrations. The event will provide a platform for service providers and MSMEs to showcase mobile payment tools, offering discounts and fostering awareness of secure, cost-effective digital transactions.
AI Disrupt 2025, organized by Bluechip Technologies Asia, successfully showcased AI-driven innovations and their impact on businesses. Key highlights included discussions on AI applications, Large Language Models, productivity tools like Microsoft Copilot, and regional AI trends. The event underscored Sri Lanka’s growing role in AI education and adoption.
Tencent Cloud is set to invest over $650 million to expand its infrastructure in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The company will establish its first data center in Saudi Arabia with a $150 million investment and build a third data center in Indonesia for $500 million, strengthening its global presence.
Yango Group has launched Yango Ventures, a corporate venture fund to support early-stage startups in high-growth regions such as Pakistan, LATAM, Sub-Saharan Africa, and MENA. With an initial fund of $20 million, Yango Ventures aims to empower startups in O2O, B2B SaaS, and FinTech sectors to scale and drive sustainable growth.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled a major education reform plan, introducing smart classrooms and digital labs in government schools. The initiative includes advanced IT training programs and the creation of Pakistan’s first Nawaz Sharif IT City in Lahore, aimed at enhancing digital skills and economic growth.
