Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Kenya has launched its broadband mapping system under the Africa-BB-Maps initiative, supported by the ITU and EU. The system will guide policy and investment, identify connectivity gaps, and accelerate universal digital access while linking broadband to socio-economic priorities like education, health, and commerce.
Iraq has signed two new submarine cable deals — one with Batelco by Beyon and another with UAE’s Breeze Investments — to land new systems at Al-Faw Peninsula. These projects, along with Ooredoo’s FIG cable, aim to transform Iraq into a strategic hub for regional and global data traffic.
Iraq is set to launch Vodafone Iraq, a new state-backed operator introducing 5G services under a 20-year brand license with Vodafone. The operator will rely on Iraqi graduates trained by Vodafone, cover major cities in its first phase, and hold exclusive 5G rights for three years to accelerate adoption.
Madari Space, an Abu Dhabi startup, will launch a proof-of-concept orbital data centre in 2026, partnering with MBRSC and the UN. The mission aims to demonstrate sustainable off-planet data storage to cut carbon emissions, support AI-era infrastructure, and prepare for the cislunar economy.
Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, in collaboration with Cisco, has launched Indonesia’s first Sovereign SOC, introducing Splunk-based AI-powered threat detection under national jurisdiction. The initiative will protect critical infrastructure, train one million Indonesians by 2030, and provide affordable security services to over 10,000 SMEs, strengthening digital sovereignty and resilience.
Africa’s smartphone shipments rose 7% in Q2 2025 to 19.2M units, led by Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa. Sub-$100 smartphones soared 38%, reshaping demand. Transsion held 51% market share, followed by Samsung and Xiaomi. Rural markets and fintech-driven services are emerging as key growth drivers.
Madari Space, an Abu Dhabi startup, will launch its first orbital data centre mission in Q3 2026 with UAE and UN partners. Positioned as a sustainable alternative to Earth-based data centres, the initiative aims to serve Earth observation operators, reduce carbon emissions, and prepare for the future cislunar economy.
Pakistan will lay three new submarine internet cables in 2025, adding 200 Tbps of bandwidth and reducing dependence on older systems. The upgrade, aligned with spectrum expansion for 5G, aims to stabilize connectivity, support digital growth, and narrow the digital divide for over 200M internet users.
OnMobile and Vodafone Qatar have launched Buzzmo, an AI-powered, telco-centric communication platform that enables real-time personalization and omnichannel engagement. Serving 800+ enterprises, Buzzmo enhances customer experience, accelerates campaign delivery, and strengthens Vodafone Qatar’s enterprise leadership in the region’s digital economy.
Pakistan will install three new submarine cables and double mobile internet spectrum to boost connectivity, expand 5G readiness, and reduce reliance on existing systems. With 200M mobile users and rising digital adoption, the upgrades aim to support innovation, inclusion, and resilience against costly internet disruptions.