Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan is preparing to launch 5G and satellite internet, expand fiber networks, and introduce a national data exchange layer. These initiatives signal the country’s commitment to regional collaboration, digital inclusion, and economic modernization through smarter infrastructure and regulatory reforms.
Pakistan is launching a National Data Exchange Layer to strengthen e-governance and digital collaboration. Backed by new spectrum auctions, fiberization policies, and market reforms, the initiative underscores Pakistan’s commitment to building a secure, inclusive, and competitive digital ecosystem across South Asia.
Kenya is strengthening its digital backbone through a public-private collaboration to roll out nationwide fiber and Wi-Fi networks under the Digital Superhighway initiative, driving inclusion and economic transformation.
Nokia, CST, and stc have completed the Middle East’s first 7 GHz 6G spectrum field trial in Saudi Arabia, validating the “golden band” for next-generation mobile networks and advancing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in 6G standardization and innovation.
Microsoft is investing $2.2 billion to launch a new Johor Baru-based cloud region, Southeast Asia 3, designed to boost Malaysia’s AI, sustainability, and digital economy initiatives through hyperscale data centres, renewable energy integration, and community skill development programs.
Batelco has renewed its partnership with Ericsson to expand Bahrain’s 5G network nationwide, deploying energy-efficient RAN systems and upgrading cloud infrastructure to support IoT, AI, and next-generation connectivity across industrial and urban zones.
Kathmandu has introduced free WiFi in 19 public areas, including hospitals, transport offices, and Tribhuvan Airport, with speeds upgraded to 150 Mbps. The project, led by Minister Jagdish Kharel and supported by NTC, WorldLink, and Vianet, expands digital access across Nepal’s capital.
Beyon has powered its Tier III data centre in Hamala entirely with solar energy following a BHD520,000 expansion of its Solar Park. The initiative supports 2.5 GWh of clean energy annually, reducing 1,777 tons of CO₂ emissions and strengthening Bahrain’s leadership in sustainable digital infrastructure.
Ericsson and MTN Nigeria have completed the country’s first trial of a triple-band massive MIMO radio, boosting network efficiency, speeds, and sustainability. The AIR 3284 system consolidates 4G mid-bands into one intelligent radio, reducing energy use and preparing MTN’s infrastructure for future 5G deployment.
Orange Tunisia has become the first African operator to host the Medusa subsea cable, connecting Tunisia to 13 Mediterranean countries and boosting the nation’s role as a digital hub linking Africa and Europe.