Alibaba has launched operations in Morocco, marking its first expansion into Africa. The move aims to support Moroccan businesses in expanding exports, particularly to North America. Through partnerships and digital storefronts, Alibaba hopes to increase global export opportunities for Moroccan companies and diversify their export markets beyond the EU.
A new Health and Wellness Digital Toolkit for the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) workforce was launched in Dhaka. Developed by AYAT Education in collaboration with BGMEA and others, the toolkit aims to improve health awareness, boost productivity, and reduce absenteeism, creating a healthier and more sustainable workforce in the garment sector.
Saudi Arabia significantly contributed to a 44% increase in e-commerce orders across the MENA region during the 2024 festive season. The growth was driven by mobile shopping, cultural events, and gifting, with mobile commerce leading the way. The region’s e-commerce market is expected to reach $50 billion by 2025.
Phygrid has partnered with VoiceComm and Microsoft to introduce innovative retail solutions to the U.S. market, enhancing customer experiences and operational efficiency. The collaboration aims to boost revenue, streamline operations, and drive data-driven decision-making for over 52,000 retail locations. This marks a key step in advancing retail digitalization.
Qatar and the UNDP have signed an MoU to promote digital innovation for sustainable development. The partnership focuses on bridging the digital divide, fostering global cooperation, and ensuring equitable growth through digital transformation. The initiative aligns with Qatar’s Vision 2030 and will enhance digital inclusion and capacity-building globally.
Oman has enabled direct audio and video calls on WhatsApp without a VPN, marking a shift in the country’s digital communication policies. Additionally, the government launched a virtual tour service, allowing global audiences to explore Oman’s iconic sites digitally. This initiative enhances digital access and promotes Oman’s tourism.
Morocco and Saudi Arabia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in government digital transition. The partnership, signed at the UN Internet Governance Forum, focuses on adopting new e-government technologies, sharing best practices, and developing specialized skills to enhance the digital infrastructure and technical partnerships between the two countries.
Egypt’s Minister of Communications, Amr Talaat, met with World Bank Vice President Sangboo Kim to discuss advancing digital transformation. They focused on enhancing digital infrastructure, skills, and awareness, including expanding fiber optics and digital services in rural areas. Future collaboration will include AI, data governance, and internet access expansion.
Hicham Sifer, Chairman of the Committee on Legal and Administrative Affairs at the Algerian People’s National Assembly, highlighted Algeria’s commitment to digitization and AI development at IGF 2024. He discussed the country’s infrastructure investments and legislative efforts, including adapting laws to foster a digital economy and boost AI capabilities.
Fifteen DCO member states, including Morocco, launched a multilateral initiative to combat fake news and enhance online content integrity during the UN Internet Governance Forum. The initiative aims to tackle disinformation, with Morocco and Saudi Arabia also signing an agreement to boost cooperation in government digital transition.
