State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak announced the launch of 5G services at Terminal 3 of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in October, following the prime minister’s directive to prioritize airports, seaports, business districts, and industrial zones. The announcement was made during a BTRC meeting in Dhaka.
Weego, founded by Saâd Jittou and Mor Niane, is a Moroccan e-mobility startup improving urban transport by offering ride-hailing, carpooling, and real-time shuttle tracking. Available on iOS and Android, Weego reduces travel time, enhances public transport use, and lowers transport costs for users and companies.
NIGCOMSAT and Infratel Africa have partnered to enhance rural connectivity in Nigeria by migrating 100 locations to the NIGCOMSAT-1R Ka-band hub platform. This collaboration aims to bridge the digital divide, promoting digital inclusivity and transformational services in unserved and underserved communities.
Airtel Telesonic, in partnership with Alcatel Submarine Networks, has activated the 2Africa submarine cable system, connecting Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa. This milestone enhances high-speed internet access and supports digital transformation across Africa, marking a significant step in bridging the digital divide on the continent.
Bangladesh’s ‘Made in Bangladesh’ roadmap aims to boost IT device manufacturing and exports, potentially creating 100,000 jobs and earning $5 billion by 2025. The plan focuses on digital transformation, leveraging local production, and international branding, supported by government and industry collaboration.
Vodafone Qatar, in collaboration with Microsoft and Crayon, hosted workshops to introduce digital solutions like ‘Vodafone Calling’ and ‘Microsoft Copilot’. These solutions aim to enhance business communication, leverage AI, and ensure cyber security, supporting the digital transformation of large enterprises in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Trend Micro’s 2023 Annual Cybersecurity Report reveals blocking over 161 billion threats, a 10% increase from last year. The report emphasizes sophisticated attacker techniques, a 349% surge in email malware, and significant threat prevention in Bahrain, highlighting the need for proactive cybersecurity measures.
The Economic Survey of Pakistan 2024 reveals significant growth in the IT and telecom sectors, driven by the China-Pakistan digital corridor. Investments in digital infrastructure, AI, and 5G networks are expected to boost startups, create jobs, and position Pakistan as a regional technology hub.
Sri Lanka’s computer literacy has increased to 39% in 2023, with digital literacy at 63.5%, according to the Department of Census and Statistics. Household computer ownership is at 20.2%, with urban areas showing higher rates of both computer and digital skills compared to rural and estate sectors.
Smartphone shipments in Africa have surpassed feature phones, with a 17.9% increase in Q1 2024, reaching 20.2 million units. This growth, driven by South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, is led by Chinese brands and mid-range models. IDC predicts continued growth despite short-term economic uncertainties.
