Pakistan plans to expand its fiber-optic network, aiming to connect 7.5 million households and achieve 80% FTTS coverage within five years. This effort is part of the National Fiberization Policy under the Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP), focusing on boosting broadband speeds and preparing for emerging technologies like 5G and IoT.
Iraq’s iDATA platform, supported by the UNDP Accelerator Lab, is transforming data access and usage across key sectors. It aggregates government and World Bank data into interactive dashboards, empowering policymakers, researchers, and entrepreneurs. The platform aims to address challenges like youth unemployment and education reform while fostering sustainable development.
The Bangladesh government expects mobile operators to reduce internet prices soon after wholesale price cuts at key distribution layers. Policy support and infrastructure improvements, including access to Dark Fiber and DWDM, aim to lower costs for consumers. Mobile operators are urged to pass on these benefits to ease inflationary pressures.
Zain Kuwait has earned the ISO 37301:2021 certification, marking a significant achievement as one of the first regional mobile operators to meet the standard for Compliance Management Systems. This reinforces Zain’s commitment to regulatory adherence, integrity, and its leadership in ISO certifications in the telecom sector.
Khazna Data Centers is expanding its UAE footprint with two new facilities in Abu Dhabi—AUH4 in Mafraq and AUH8 in Masdar City. These facilities, alongside QAJ1 in Ajman, will serve the growing demand for AI and cloud services in the UAE. The centers, built to LEED Gold standards, will support cutting-edge AI workloads and digital transformation goals.
MTN has officially transferred its Afghanistan operations to M1 New Ventures, a Lebanon-based investment firm, which will now operate under the brand ATOMA. The transition, completed under the Taliban’s regulatory framework, includes an auction for 48 megahertz of spectrum, generating around $100 million in leasing agreements.
Africa has the lowest internet usage rate globally, with only 38% of the population online in 2024, far below the global average. High costs, limited digital skills, and poor infrastructure, especially in rural areas, hinder access. The ITU urges stronger policies and investment to address digital inequalities and improve connectivity.
Nepal Telecom has announced planned disruptions in areas including Thahiti, Asan, and Indrachowk due to internal maintenance and FTTH network upgrades. Services such as telephone, internet, and TV will be unavailable from 9 pm on Friday to 7 am on Saturday.
The Bangladesh government has committed to abolishing internet shutdown policies, reducing service costs, and improving quality through deregulation and reforms. These steps include implementing a new network topology and performance-based regulatory model to enhance internet accessibility and infrastructure, while also addressing the needs of underserved areas.
Maroc Telecom has doubled fiber internet speeds for all subscribers and revised its pricing structure, offering faster speeds at lower costs. This upgrade, effective May 1, enhances broadband access for both individuals and businesses, supporting Morocco’s digital transformation. Subscribers will automatically benefit from the new speeds and pricing.
