Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The Taliban reports rising mobile internet usage and expanded coverage, but recent network shutdowns and high connectivity costs undermine progress as Afghanistan remains one of the least-developed telecom markets worldwide.
China Mobile has landed the SEA-H2X subsea cable in Hong Kong and activated key eastern segments of the 2Africa system, strengthening connectivity across Asia, Africa, and Europe. SEA-H2X adds more than 100Tbps of China Mobile bandwidth and reinforces Hong Kong’s digital hub role, while 2Africa’s activation supports Africa’s digital economy through high-capacity, low-latency infrastructure and deeper China–Africa technology cooperation.
Batelco and BNET have partnered to deploy Bahrain’s landing and inland systems for the SMW6 and Al-Khaleej submarine cables, enhancing the Kingdom’s international connectivity, speed, and data resilience. The project strengthens Bahrain’s role as a regional digital gateway and supports national digital transformation goals by improving cloud access, reducing latency, and expanding global network capacity.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has urged faster progress on key digital infrastructure projects, including telecom tower rollout, SLUDI, and NIC issuance. Reviewing the work of TRCSL, DRP, and GovTech, he emphasised eliminating delays, scaling infrastructure, and strengthening governance as essential pillars for the 2026 Budget’s digital economy objectives and long-term transformation goals.
eSIM adoption is rising quickly in Saudi Arabia as travelers embrace Airalo’s seamless and affordable digital connectivity. The shift aligns with Vision 2030’s focus on mobility and innovation, enabling users to activate mobile networks instantly upon arrival abroad. With strong customer uptake and expanding global coverage, Airalo is helping position Saudi Arabia at the forefront of regional digital transformation.
Morocco has launched nationwide 5G with Inwi, Orange Maroc, and Maroc Telecom simultaneously activating ultra-fast networks. The rollout delivers low-latency connectivity, immersive digital services, and stronger regional digital hub positioning through major infrastructure investments.
Avanti is boosting satellite capacity in Southern Africa through additional Türksat 5B bandwidth, strengthening enterprise and community connectivity while supporting regional telecom growth.
AST SpaceMobile has delayed its satellite launches due to manufacturing and antenna challenges but remains commercially strong, with major deals involving Verizon, STC, and Vodafone. The company has $1B in contracts and may join Europe’s IRIS2 constellation.
Turkcell has entered into a strategic cloud technology partnership with Google, committing $1 billion through 2032 to expand data centers and boost digital infrastructure. The collaboration focuses on enhancing cloud innovation, enterprise transformation, and Turkey’s digital competitiveness.
Thuraya, a subsidiary of Space42, has launched its Thuraya-4 satellite in South Africa to expand national coverage, strengthen communications for key sectors, and advance Vision 2030’s digital inclusion goals. The rollout aligns with Space42’s broader African strategy connecting schools, clinics, and governments through AI-powered satellite infrastructure.