Morocco’s Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) and telecom operator Inwi signed an agreement at GITEX Africa to support digital startups. The collaboration aims to foster innovation and growth, particularly through the InwiDays Awards, and establish a national center for startup acceleration in key areas like fintech, AI, and sportstech.
Orange Jordan launched the third season of its AI Incubator, in partnership with ISSF and PSUT. The program received 108 applications, shortlisted to 7 finalists. The AI Incubator aims to support AI-based startups and students, enhancing their skills, securing investments, and fostering socio-economic development in Jordan.
The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), KAUST, and “Garage” announce the Space Tech Entrepreneurship Incubation Program. This six-month initiative aims to attract investments, support innovation, and expand R&D in the space sector. It includes a hackathon, bootcamp, incubation phase, and community establishment. Interested participants can register on the program page.
The TDRA has released an updated Telecommunications Network Box Specification Manual, reducing costs and space for telecom infrastructure by up to 50%. The manual supports UAE’s smart city initiatives and maintains its global leadership in FTTH. It benefits telecom operators, developers, and users by standardizing specifications and enhancing service delivery.
Tunisia and Italy signed an MoU to enhance digital technology and industrial cooperation. The agreement includes establishing national focal points and a joint team to facilitate technology transfer, investment, and collaboration in AI projects. Both countries aim to boost economic ties and support Tunisia’s digital transition.
Huawei Cloud has launched its Cairo Region, serving 28 African countries with innovative cloud services. It also introduced a new Arabic language model for automatic speech recognition with 96% accuracy. These initiatives aim to support digital transformation and enhance services across Africa, including Egypt, Ethiopia, and Algeria.
Algérie Télécom has revised its summer working hours for commercial agencies from June 1 to September 30, 2024. Northern regions will operate from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, while southern regions will have split hours to mitigate heat. Customer service points will follow regional schedules, ensuring continuous service.
World Wide Technology (WWT) and NXT Global have partnered to establish the UAE’s first AI integration center in Masdar City. The facility aims to position the UAE as a global leader and exporter of AI infrastructure, enhancing the nation’s technological capabilities and supporting sustainable development and innovation.
Bahrain’s Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) won the Champion Award at the UN’s World Summit on the Information Society for revamping the National Portal (bahrain.bh). The portal features user personalization, government notifications, and multiple payment methods, enhancing access to over 1,300 government services and 680+ eServices.
A PwC Middle East report highlights the crucial role of emerging digital technologies, like Generative AI, in achieving transformative growth in Saudi Arabia. Organizations face challenges such as resource availability and resistance to change. Investing in robust digital infrastructure and promoting innovation are recommended for sustainable success.
