Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has partnered with Microsoft to support startups and foster digital innovation. The initiative aims to provide mentorship, access to technologies like AI and cloud computing, and training programs to enhance competitiveness, aligning with Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030 and strengthening its tech ecosystem.
Sparkle and Turkcell have signed an MoU to develop a 4,000 km subsea cable solution between Izmir and Chania, boosting Mediterranean connectivity. The cable, integrated with Sparkle’s BlueMed Cable System, offers high-capacity, low-latency data transmission, enhancing international data infrastructure and providing a secure option for hyperscalers and content providers.
Viettel High Tech has launched a 5G equipment trial with du at MWC 2025, marking a significant step in their collaboration to deploy advanced 5G solutions in the Middle East. The trial will focus on 5G Open RAN for public networks and 5G solutions for private networks, supporting regional digital transformation.
Qatar’s hosting of MWC 2025 highlights its commitment to digital innovation, supporting its Vision 2030. The event will showcase advancements in AI, 5G, IoT, and cloud computing, enhancing Qatar’s position as a global technology hub. It fosters international collaboration and investment in Qatar’s digital infrastructure and economic diversification.
Telenor Pakistan has signed a strategic deal with Huawei at MWC 2025 to upgrade its Communication Business Support System (CBS), enhancing its billing infrastructure, real-time data processing, and customer experience. The collaboration marks a significant step in Telenor’s digital transformation journey with long-term technological support from Huawei.
Ncell has joined the Internet Service Providers Association of Nepal (ISPAN), marking the first time a telecom operator has become part of the group. The move aligns with Ncell’s interest in entering the ISP business. Alongside Ncell, CG Communication has also joined ISPAN, strengthening the association’s influence.
Huawei has partnered with Telecom Egypt to enhance 5G services in Egypt and North Africa. The collaboration involves deploying advanced solutions, including BladeAAU and Pico Radio, to support 5G networks. This partnership helps Telecom Egypt strengthen its position as a leading ICT operator and accelerate Egypt’s digital transformation.
Orange has partnered with Eutelsat’s Konnect satellite to expand internet access in regions like Jordan, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The satellite offers up to 100 Mb/s speeds, aiming to improve connectivity in remote areas and supporting mobile backhaul and maritime applications across Africa.
Jordan ranked 49th globally in the Government AI Readiness Index 2024, improving from its 2023 position of 55th. The country outperformed Bahrain, Egypt, and Kuwait, reflecting its efforts in enhancing AI integration, including the AI-powered electricity load forecasting project aimed at boosting energy efficiency and accelerating renewable energy adoption.
Starlink has begun discussions with Moroccan authorities to deploy its satellites over the Sahara. Negotiations, which began in the summer of 2024, were further advanced during the Qatar-Africa Business Forum in November 2024. The deployment depends on approval from Morocco’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT).
