Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Jordan and Saudi Arabia have launched a new business network to institutionalize private-sector collaboration, accelerate deal-making, and expand trade and investment. Backed by chambers, diplomats, and business leaders, the platform introduces structured matchmaking, sector committees, and digital tools to convert opportunities into real projects.
Starlink is providing free satellite internet across Venezuela until 3 February after major connectivity outages in Caracas linked to power disruptions. The service aims to restore access in a country with a history of internet restrictions and infrastructure gaps, offering continuity during a period of widespread uncertainty.
Orange Côte d’Ivoire has launched Orange Sat, a satellite broadband service powered by Eutelsat to connect rural white zones. Offering both unlimited enterprise plans and low-cost prepaid passes, the initiative expands digital inclusion by bringing reliable internet to areas beyond 4G and fibre coverage.
Grameenphone has become the first operator in Bangladesh to acquire 700MHz spectrum, paying Tk2,370 crore for 10MHz. The low-band frequency will improve rural and indoor coverage, strengthen 4G and future 5G networks, and mark a major upgrade in nationwide mobile broadband capability.
USF and Jazz have launched Rs. 1.16 billion broadband projects across nine districts in Punjab and KP, targeting 533,000 rural residents. The initiative strengthens Pakistan’s Digital Nation agenda, accelerates inclusion, and expands high-speed connectivity through public-private collaboration.
Ooredoo-backed Syntys has acquired Q Data’s hyperscale data centres in Qatar, adding two Tier III facilities and lifting live capacity to 26MW. The move strengthens Qatar’s sovereign cloud ambitions, addresses regional hyperscale demand, and reinforces Syntys’ position as a carrier-neutral platform for global cloud and AI providers.
MTN South Sudan has launched 4G+ coverage in Wun Kuel, bringing faster and more reliable internet to an underserved area in Warrap State. The expansion supports education, commerce, and digital inclusion, reinforcing MTN’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and extending high-quality connectivity nationwide.
Ooredoo Group, through Syntys, has acquired Q Data’s hyperscale facilities in Qatar, adding 12.5MW of Tier III capacity and lifting national live IT capacity to 26MW. The move strengthens sovereign cloud and AI infrastructure, positions Syntys for hyperscaler demand, and advances its MENA expansion to 120MW by 2030.
stc Bahrain has partnered with online trading provider CFI to deliver secure, resilient ICT and connectivity services. The agreement places stc at the heart of CFI’s financial operations, enabling regulatory compliance, data protection, and uninterrupted service delivery while strengthening Bahrain’s digital and financial infrastructure.
Amazon is preparing to launch its LEO satellite services in South Africa later this year through licensed local partners. The move expands broadband reach via ISP backhaul, aligns with ICASA’s regulatory framework, and places Amazon Leo alongside Starlink and OneWeb in a fast-growing African satellite connectivity market.