Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
JoPACC’s 2024 report shows a 77.2% increase in digital payments in Jordan, with significant growth in instant payments and mobile wallet usage. The total value of transactions reached 79.95 billion JOD, reflecting the country’s shift towards a more digital financial ecosystem, with a focus on inclusivity and efficiency.
The UN projects the global AI market will reach $4.8 trillion by 2033, but warns that 40% of jobs could be affected, with AI deepening existing inequalities. The report calls for increased international cooperation and investments in reskilling to ensure AI drives inclusive development across all nations.
IRAQ-IXP celebrates its first anniversary as the third-largest Internet Exchange in the Middle East. Powered by DE-CIX, it connects 28 networks, including global giants like Meta and Akamai. The exchange has experienced a 150% traffic increase, reflecting growing demand for reliable and high-speed connectivity in Iraq and the region.
AmiViz has partnered with NEOX Networks to enhance network visibility and security across the GCC, Egypt, and Africa. This collaboration will provide enterprises with advanced network visibility solutions, addressing network challenges, improving cybersecurity, and supporting digital transformation initiatives such as hybrid-cloud and multi-cloud strategies.
Maseera has acquired ADVA, a leading Egyptian consumer finance platform, to drive financial inclusion in Egypt. The acquisition will strengthen Maseera’s AI and data analytics capabilities, focusing on expanding credit access for underserved populations. ADVA will also seek Egypt’s first digital consumer finance license to enhance onboarding processes.
Sheba’s new campaign, “The Pharaoh’s Lost Cat,” invites cat owners to discover if their pets are descendants of ancient Egyptian pharaoh cats. Using an AI tool, owners can submit photos for analysis. Cats with royal lineage will win a lifetime supply of Sheba food and be crowned in a ceremony.
Maseera has acquired ADVA, an Egyptian consumer finance platform, to enhance its financial services. The acquisition aims to leverage AI-driven lending solutions to provide inclusive financing for underserved segments in Egypt, particularly in healthcare and education. This move supports Maseera’s global expansion and financial inclusion mission.
Airtel and IHS Towers have announced a partnership to install 152 new communication towers in Zambia, with a US$14 million investment. This project will enhance network quality and increase coverage, aiming for 93% coverage by next year and 95-96% within two years.
Bangladesh has improved its frontier technology preparedness, ranking 112th globally in the 2025 Technology and Innovation Report. The country excels in research and development but lags in ICT development. While India leads South Asia, Bangladesh faces challenges in infrastructure and skills, requiring reforms to fully leverage frontier technologies.
Women face increasing cybercrimes such as harassment, blackmail, and doxing, with many victims hesitant to seek help due to fear of public exposure and societal pressures. Despite efforts by the Police Cyber Support for Women, experts urge legal reforms, better victim support systems, and enhanced digital literacy to protect women online.