Dialog Axiata has completed the acquisition of Airtel Lanka through a share swap. Post-acquisition, Axiata holds 73.75% of Dialog, Bharti Airtel 10.355%, and the public 15.895%. Both brands will continue to serve customers while merging networks to enhance connectivity. The move aims to drive growth and innovation in Sri Lanka’s telecom sector.
Grameenphone, a subsidiary of Telenor, aims to connect 50 million internet users in Bangladesh within five years. The company recently surpassed 50 million subscribers and plans significant annual investments to upgrade its network. Celebratory offers include doubling internet speeds for 3G users. Grameenphone’s network covers 99% of the population.
Kuwait reaffirmed its dedication to human rights principles in AI during the OIC’s 23rd IPHRC session in Jeddah. Diplomatic Attaché Jana Al-Dhafiri emphasized the need for international cooperation to harness AI’s benefits and address challenges like inequality, highlighting Kuwait’s AI advancements and commitment to aligning with global standards and sustainable development goals.
Egypt and Burkina Faso are enhancing digital cooperation, focusing on sharing expertise and developing digital infrastructure. This collaboration aims to support Egypt’s “Digital Egypt 2030” strategy and Burkina Faso’s efforts to modernize public services, fostering technological partnerships and economic opportunities for both nations.
BIGTECH 2024, held at the Kram Exhibition Centre, gathers 1,000 startups and companies to position Tunisia as a technology hub in Africa. The event promotes innovation, AI, IoT, and digital transformation, supported by government initiatives in digital infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and the simplification of administrative procedures.
Tunisia’s Ministry of Communication Technologies has launched a tender for 5G network licenses as part of a national digital development strategy. Interested operators must submit bids by September 2, 2024. The initiative aims to enhance digital infrastructure and expand broadband coverage, supporting the country’s digital growth and connectivity goals.
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdullah bin Amer Al-Sawah, launched the “National Internet Switchboard” in Riyadh to enhance internet quality. This initiative, part of the National Transformation Program 2020, aims to activate digital services and boost information security, supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.
Oman has achieved significant progress in government digital transformation from 2021-2023, focusing on digital services, infrastructure projects, and community participation. Key initiatives include the Manjam Laboratories for simplifying procedures and a unified national portal for electronic services, enhancing efficiency and attracting foreign investments.
Mercy Corps and Queen for Change launched the Tahammul digital platform in Jordan to address climate change. The platform aims to improve cooperation, resource allocation, and transparency in climate action. Key dialogues at the launch focused on securing climate financing and building resilience through policies, technology, and protecting vulnerable groups.
Dialog Axiata has acquired 100% control of Bharti Airtel Lanka via a share swap, reducing Axiata Group’s stake to 73.75% and giving Bharti Airtel 10.355%. The merger aims to improve efficiencies, cut costs, and enhance customer experience, adding 5 million subscribers to Dialog’s existing 18 million.
