Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt’s ITIDA and NTI honoured 100 top students from the Summer Training Program, which targets 10,000 undergraduates with advanced ICT skills. Covering AI, cybersecurity, data science, and more, the initiative has already trained 6,125 students, awarded global certifications, and provided industry exposure through Smart Village tours.
Thailand’s NBTC will release 100MHz in the 4800MHz band for private 5G networks, enabling factories and enterprises to deploy non-profit networks free of charge. The move is designed to accelerate Thailand 4.0, supporting industrial IoT, robotics, and digital transformation, while keeping strict rules for commercial 5G use.
Oman’s Environment Authority has launched a national digital system to track radioactive sources, supported by two additional contracts for external services modernization and internal resource management. The initiatives enhance safety, transparency, and regulatory efficiency, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 and its environmental sustainability strategy.
Lebanon has granted a licence to Elon Musk’s Starlink to provide satellite internet services through a newly formed local entity. Initially limited to companies with packages from $100 per month, the move breaks state monopoly over internet services and aims to boost connectivity in one of the region’s slowest markets.
Egypt’s NTRA participated in ITUGSR-25 in Riyadh, highlighting progress in 5G, IPv6, cloud regulation, and cybersecurity frameworks. The delegation signed an MoU with Georgia, met regulators from key countries, and held discussions with global tech firms, reinforcing Egypt’s role in global telecom governance and investment-friendly digital growth.
Egypt has unveiled its National Narrative for Economic Development, targeting 7% annual growth and greater private sector participation by 2030. The framework builds on the 2022 State Ownership Policy, focusing on competitiveness, green transition, high-productivity sectors, and restructuring state economic roles to strengthen long-term growth and job creation.
Bangladesh risks falling short of its trillion-dollar digital economy target due to one of the world’s highest spectrum and tax burdens, a GSMA report warns. High costs are slowing 5G rollout and internet speeds, while reforms in spectrum pricing and taxation could unlock up to $45 billion in economic growth by 2035.
Bangladesh has approved its Telecom Networking Licence Policy 2025, aiming to streamline licensing, enhance competition, and improve nationwide service quality. While Grameenphone and Banglalink welcomed reforms, Robi Axiata voiced disappointment over unaddressed industry inputs. Analysts say the policy’s success hinges on clear implementation guidelines and meaningful stakeholder engagement.
Ghana’s NCA and Togo’s ARCEP have launched joint talks in Accra to address telecom spectrum coordination at their shared borders. With MNO participation, the three-day forum aims to reduce interference, improve service quality, and align policies with ITU and regional standards under ECOWAS and ATU.
A GSMA report warns Bangladesh’s high spectrum costs and heavy taxation are holding back 5G adoption and network investment. By aligning spectrum prices with regional or global levels, the country could accelerate 5G rollout, raise speeds, and unlock up to $45 billion in economic growth by 2035.