Talaty, a Moroccan fintech company, has secured investment from Witamax and Renew Capital to enhance financial inclusion for SMEs in Morocco and Francophone Africa. The AI-driven platform helps reduce costs and defaults, offering faster credit decisions, and aims to support SMBs with essential financial services across the region.
Kuwait has resumed issuing electronic visas for tourists from 53 eligible countries after improving its visa system. The new portal allows applicants to apply online, providing essential details and documents. The platform will eventually offer additional visa categories, including business, family, and government visas, in the future.
In 2024, Jordan’s government service centres completed 882,583 electronic transactions, reflecting the success of the initiative to streamline public services. The centres, which offer multiple government services under one roof, utilize innovative technology to enhance accessibility and customer satisfaction, in line with King Abdullah’s vision for improved public services.
Arab Weather continues to dominate as Jordan’s leading weather platform, reaching new milestones in 2024 with 7.5 million users. With innovations like the STORM X weather observation vehicle and engaging programs such as “Ramadan Joke” and “Where Are You?”, the platform enhances its reach and impact across the region.
The National Telecommunication Institute (NTI), in collaboration with Huawei, completed its first AI training program at the Egyptian Talent Academy, offering young Egyptians the chance to enhance their skills in AI, Python programming, and advanced technologies. Participants can apply for Huawei Certified ICT Associate certification to boost career prospects.
The PTA has confirmed that internet disruptions in Pakistan are due to a fault in the AAE-1 undersea cable, located near Qatar. The cable connects Pakistan to several international networks, and efforts are underway to repair the issue. Users may continue experiencing slowdowns and connectivity problems across the country.
Dell Technologies has introduced AI-driven solutions for Microsoft Azure, including Dell APEX File Storage and advanced data protection services. These innovations are designed to accelerate AI adoption, improve performance, and enhance cybersecurity across multicloud environments, helping customers modernize IT infrastructure while safeguarding their data.
The African telecom tower market is set to grow significantly, with the number of installed towers expected to rise from 208.31 thousand in 2024 to 261.21 thousand by 2029. Key drivers include increased mobile workforce demand, rural connectivity efforts, and the rollout of 4G and 5G technologies.
Robi Axiata has appointed M Riyaaz Rasheed as acting CEO, effective February 1, 2025, following Rajeev Sethi’s transition to a new role within Axiata Group. Rasheed, the current CFO, had previously served as acting CEO before Sethi’s appointment in 2022. Robi is the second-largest mobile operator in Bangladesh.
Derasat, Bahrain’s Centre for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies, continued to strengthen regional and global partnerships throughout 2024. The centre advanced its strategic initiatives, including collaborations with international institutions, the launch of the “Green Houses of Worship” programme, and contributions to Bahrain’s digital transformation efforts.
