Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Lebanon’s state-owned telecom company Ogero is working to restore and expand the country’s connectivity after experiencing significant damage due to the Israeli conflict. With support from multiple donors, Ogero plans to upgrade its network infrastructure, increase LTE stations, and implement solar energy solutions, ensuring a sustainable and enhanced service.
IBM and Vodafone are collaborating to integrate quantum computing into telecommunications, aiming to enhance data services, network efficiency, and security. Their joint efforts will optimize global networks, reduce latency, and improve consumer experiences, setting a new standard for the telecom industry and shaping the future of connectivity.
Iran and Iraq are deepening scientific cooperation, focusing on establishing science and technology parks and educational exchanges. The recent Iran-Iraq Science Week facilitated agreements to grant scholarships, exchange professors, and expand research collaborations. Iraq looks to Iran’s expertise in modern technologies to enhance its scientific infrastructure.
Omdia predicts that 5G penetration in Africa will rise from 1.4% in 2024 to 25.6% by 2029, driving growth in mobile data traffic. Mobile subscriptions will reach 1.78 billion by 2029, with fiber broadband also seeing significant expansion. Governments are encouraged to prioritize 5G spectrum allocation and device affordability.
e& has teamed up with IBM to implement an advanced AI and Generative AI governance solution, revealed at WEF 2025. The solution will enhance e&’s AI governance framework, promoting compliance, transparency, and ethical oversight while scaling AI operations responsibly. This partnership addresses key AI governance challenges and risks.
SLASSCOM has partnered with Hexaware Technologies to boost Sri Lanka’s IT industry, positioning the country as a global hub for digital innovation. This collaboration focuses on AI, IoT, and empowering local talent, with a key focus on the People Summit 2025 to foster growth and global competitiveness in the tech sector.
Saudi Arabia’s mining industry is rapidly adopting cloud technology to drive efficiency and support ambitious growth plans. Ma’aden is leading this transformation, emphasizing the importance of cloud, mobility, edge computing, and AI in accelerating exploration and production, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to diversify its economy.
Pakistan’s mobile phone imports declined by 7.46% in the first half of FY 2024-25, totaling $733.425 million. While monthly imports showed a slight increase, the year-on-year growth remained negative. Locally manufactured handsets reached 28.43 million, with smartphones accounting for 65% of the market.
Northstar Telecom has partnered with EICT Technology to introduce its Startracker Vehicle Tracking Service to Saudi Arabia. The collaboration aims to provide businesses with advanced fleet management tools, including real-time tracking and customizable alerts. EICT will handle marketing and customer support, while Northstar will provide ongoing technological support.
Ooredoo has launched an entertaining campaign highlighting its network strength. Through humorous characters representing connectivity issues, the series showcases how Ooredoo solves frustrations, especially for gamers. With local influencers in each market, the campaign emphasizes Ooredoo’s commitment to innovation and seamless connectivity, offering an upgraded user experience.