Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The Sri Lanka Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Summit 2025 in Colombo focused on leveraging DPI to drive economic growth and digital inclusion. The event brought together global leaders, experts, and stakeholders to discuss how DPI can accelerate Sri Lanka’s digital economy and achieve Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
HUTCH, in partnership with Trainocate, launched the “Srilankanization” initiative to enhance digital skills among Sri Lankans. The program offers training on digital applications through the RESET e-learning platform, providing affordable access to certifications from Microsoft, AWS, Google Cloud, and Cisco, aiming to strengthen Sri Lanka’s digital economy.
vminds.ai, a Saudi-based AI startup, has raised a six-figure pre-seed funding round to launch its platform for individuals and businesses. The company aggregates over 150 AI tools and is affiliated with Microsoft and NVIDIA. It aims to expand regionally and globally through partnerships and strategic growth initiatives.
Salam and MADA have formed a strategic partnership to enhance messaging services in Saudi Arabia, focusing on A2P messaging, two-factor authentication, and automated notifications. The partnership aims to improve digital service delivery, meet increasing demand, and align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, driving innovation and customer experience.
Pakistan is set to approve Starlink and other tech companies to operate within six months. The IT Ministry aims to expedite digital services, including broadband improvements and IT park establishment. The committee also urged for grants to improve broadband services in remote areas and achieve national IT export targets.
Nepal Telecom is expanding its services to international and domestic airports and enhancing its corporate social responsibility efforts. The company is distributing school supplies, providing shuttle services for the elderly and disabled, and offering free NT Fiber to schools. It also aids disaster-affected areas and supports the elderly and visually impaired.
Zain has partnered with the Kuwait CyberChamps Competition to enhance digital skills among middle and high school students. The collaboration focuses on cybersecurity awareness and STEM education, aiming to develop the next generation of skilled youth. The initiative is part of Zain’s broader commitment to fostering digital transformation and youth empowerment.
Khazna, an Egyptian fintech startup, has raised $16 million in pre-Series B funding, bringing its total funding to over $63 million. The company provides financial services like salary advances and microloans to low-income workers. It plans to expand into Saudi Arabia and apply for a digital banking license in Egypt.
LOGIC has acquired a majority stake in NEXEL, enhancing its digital and AI-driven consulting capabilities. This acquisition will strengthen LOGIC’s position in key markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, combining NEXEL’s expertise in digital strategy with LOGIC’s regional reach to offer transformative solutions for businesses.
Vodafone Egypt has renewed its exclusive partnership with Anghami and OSN+, offering exclusive access to their services for Vodafone RED and FLEX customers. This collaboration aims to enhance digital entertainment offerings in the Middle East and North Africa, reinforcing Vodafone Egypt’s role as a leader in entertainment content.