Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Bangladesh has introduced a unified telecom policy to replace its fragmented licensing regime, cutting more than a dozen licence types down to four. The new framework simplifies governance, caps foreign ownership, prioritises fibre rollout, recognises MVNOs, and gives regulators stronger tools to curb dominance while promoting innovation in 5G, IoT, and beyond.
Kuwait has partnered with Google Cloud under a strategic framework to accelerate digital transformation, enhance cloud services, and reinforce cybersecurity infrastructure. The collaboration underscores Kuwait’s vision to modernize digital systems, protect data, and build a sustainable, future-ready digital economy.
Nepal’s new Communication Minister Jagdish Kharel has announced a plan to provide free public WiFi in Kathmandu within two months and in 10 major cities within five months. The initiative, implemented via NTA, aims to expand digital access despite regulatory challenges.
Morocco will officially launch the Digital for Sustainable Development (D4SD) initiative at the 80th UN General Assembly. Backed by UNDP, the program positions Morocco as a digital hub linking Africa and the Arab world, advancing economic growth, public services, and regional digital integration.
The UAE Cyber Security Council warned that 98% of cyberattacks stem from human error, with fraudsters exploiting social engineering tactics such as impersonation and urgency. Through its Cyber Pulse campaign, the UAE aims to strengthen awareness, digital resilience, and trust in its expanding digital ecosystem.
Sri Lanka has launched its National Cyber Protection Strategy (2025–2029), backed by the World Bank, to create a secure digital ecosystem. The plan includes a legal framework, workforce development, and public awareness, alongside the inauguration of a 24/7 National Cybersecurity Operations Center to safeguard critical infrastructure.
Pakistan’s PTA chief has confirmed repeated citizen data leaks on the dark web, including 300,000 Hajj applicants, underscoring the urgent need for a Data Protection Bill. Meanwhile, internet speeds have slowed due to multiple submarine cable cuts off Yemen, with repairs expected to take up to five weeks.
Zambia has taken bold steps toward digital transformation with two new bills on e-transactions and postal regulation, ICTAZ’s new 2025–2027 strategy, and a US$120 million World Bank grant. These moves aim to modernize regulations, strengthen ICT capacity, and drive infrastructure growth under Vision 2030.
Raya IT has secured a $23.5 million loan from IDB to accelerate digital infrastructure projects, particularly in Egypt’s banking sector. The partnership supports Vision 2030 goals, blending Raya’s tech expertise with IDB’s financial strength to boost digital banking, cybersecurity, and financial inclusion nationwide.
Egypt’s NTRA and NCPD have signed a cooperation protocol to strengthen digital and telecom services for Persons with Disabilities. The agreement includes expertise exchange, awareness campaigns, and a new complaints mechanism to improve accessibility, particularly for those with hearing and visual impairments.