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’s telecom regulator is reviewing arbitration and mediation proposals from Grameenphone and Robi to resolve a Tk 13,447 crore audit dispute, as legal complexities surrounding statutory claims and arbitration rules prolong a six-year conflict affecting regulatory clarity and investor confidence in the telecom sector.
Qatar’s MCIT and Oracle have signed an agreement to expand dedicated government cloud infrastructure and renew technical support services, strengthening digital service continuity, cybersecurity readiness and AI capabilities as part of the country’s ongoing public-sector digital transformation strategy.
Nigeria’s NCC and NDPC have signed an MoU to strengthen data protection and privacy in the telecommunications sector, aligning regulatory responsibilities and improving oversight as digital services expand, with the agreement aimed at safeguarding consumer data, enhancing governance and supporting the country’s growing digital economy.
Officials agreed on the urgent need for comprehensive legislation and the formation of a national committee to oversee implementation with clear timelines, positioning Egypt alongside countries that are strengthening online safety laws for minors.
Pakistan’s planned spectrum release is designed to ease congestion, improve quality of service, and support next-generation mobile broadband growth across the country.
BTRC’s outreach to Robi and Banglalink signals an effort to address concerns over fairness and develop a more balanced, transparent spectrum policy as Bangladesh prepares for next-generation connectivity.
Nigeria’s NCC has partnered with the NSCDC to curb escalating fibre optic damage largely caused by uncoordinated construction and roadworks. Despite CNII protections and reporting platforms, incidents remain high, with MTN reporting 25 cuts daily. Safeguarding fibre is critical as Nigeria advances its $2 billion, 90,000 km national connectivity rollout.
TDRA confirmed that importing telecom devices into the UAE requires a customs clearance permit to ensure legal and safe entry. The regulator urged businesses and individuals to review guidelines on its website or call 80012, as part of efforts to prevent unauthorized and potentially risky equipment from entering the country.
Pakistan will hold its 5G spectrum auction on March 10 to ease network congestion caused by limited spectrum. With 130 million broadband users operating on 274 MHz, the move aims to improve Internet speeds and support the country’s expanding digital economy and rising IT exports.
Egypt has blocked Roblox following concerns raised in parliament about child online safety. The Supreme Council for Media Regulation ordered the move, with the NTRA implementing the technical block. Authorities said the platform posed risks linked to children’s internet and social media use, prompting immediate regulatory action.