Africa has the lowest internet usage rate globally, with only 38% of the population online in 2024, far below the global average. High costs, limited digital skills, and poor infrastructure, especially in rural areas, hinder access. The ITU urges stronger policies and investment to address digital inequalities and improve connectivity.
Dr. Khulood Almani, CEO of HKB Tech, outlines her vision for Saudi Arabia’s AI innovation and digital transformation. With a focus on sustainable entrepreneurship, AI-driven development, and localizing technology, she emphasizes the need for regulatory frameworks and collaboration to drive economic growth while fostering a digitally inclusive future.
The Saudi Digital Library, part of the Ministry of Education, offers 169 databases and millions of digital resources to support researchers, students, and academic institutions. With over 2.2 million beneficiaries, it aims to become the largest digital knowledge hub in the Middle East, expanding access to scientific materials and research.
A new study shows that nearly 348 million people in the Arab world use the internet, with 228 million active social media users. TikTok is the most popular social media app in the region, particularly in the Gulf, while Facebook and YouTube lead in North Africa and Egypt, respectively.
Commercial Bank and Microsoft hosted the first DHL4SMEs workshop in Qatar, focusing on digital and financial strategies for SMEs. The event, part of the DHL4SMEs program, offered insights on innovative digital platforms and technologies to help businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive market, supporting Qatar’s economic development goals.
Pakistan has launched a digital system for pharmaceutical export certifications, offering the Digital Certificate of Pharmaceutical Product (COPP), Free Sale Certificate, GMP Certificate, and No Objection Certificate. This initiative aims to streamline regulatory processes, enhance compliance with international standards, and boost exports, aligning with global best practices.
Oman has launched the Digital Accessibility Guideline to promote inclusive e-services, aligning with Vision 2040. The guideline encourages developers to adopt global best practices, ensuring equitable access to digital government services for all citizens, especially persons with disabilities and the elderly, supporting Oman’s digital transformation and sustainable development goals.
Nepal Telecom has announced planned disruptions in areas including Thahiti, Asan, and Indrachowk due to internal maintenance and FTTH network upgrades. Services such as telephone, internet, and TV will be unavailable from 9 pm on Friday to 7 am on Saturday.
Lebanon’s Minister Kamal Shehadi outlined a $50 million strategy to digitize government services and drive AI innovation. The plan includes implementing a national digital ID, digitizing payments, and building AI infrastructure. Shehadi aims to transform Lebanon’s public sector, restore trust, and position the country as an innovation hub.
Cyber Enviro-Tech, Inc. (CETI) has successfully registered with Kuwait Oil Company (KOC), opening the door to bid on a $100M annual remediation project. The company’s Hybrid TDS SWD water remediation system, which removes contaminants up to 400 times more effectively than EPA standards, positions CETI for significant growth.
