Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Tunisie Telecom has signed a strategic partnership with Medusa for a high-capacity fibre optic link between Tunisia and France, aimed at enhancing regional and international digital connectivity. The project, set to be completed by early 2026, will boost Tunisia’s digital infrastructure and sovereignty.
Etihad Salam Telecom Company and center3 have strengthened their partnership to enhance digital infrastructure and connectivity. The collaboration will focus on improving network resilience, expanding connectivity, and offering scalable solutions aligned with the digital economy strategy of the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology in the MENA region.
Pakistan’s mobile phone assembly industry saw a 47% increase in production in 2024, reaching 31.4 million units. Government import restrictions, tax incentives, and economic recovery drove the growth. December 2024 alone saw a 28% month-over-month increase in local assembly, continuing a positive trend in the sector.
Nepal Telecom is set to shut down its 2G network on the 1800 MHz band, focusing on expanding its 4G infrastructure. This decision follows the company’s significant 4G growth, with 1.64 crore users. While 2G will remain on the 900 MHz band, the shift aims to improve 4G service and prepare for 5G.
Celona has partnered with stc Group to launch private 5G solutions aimed at enhancing wireless connectivity for businesses. This collaboration will streamline automation, reduce costs, and enable faster deployment of new services across sectors like oil and gas, logistics, and manufacturing in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) transferred JD175 million to the Treasury in 2024. The report highlights key regulatory activities, including the issuance of type approvals, device entry approvals, and exemptions for 5G infrastructure. Jordan’s global rankings in mobile and fixed internet speeds were also mentioned.
Minister Kamel Al-Wazir conducted an inspection tour of key industrial factories in Egypt, including Elsewedy Telecom Cables, Utopia Pharmaceuticals, and Schneider Electric. The tour highlighted significant investments, local production, and export capabilities, with a focus on boosting Egypt’s industrial growth, employment, and competitiveness in the global market.
Grameenphone Ltd reported strong financials in 2024, with a 60% EBITDA margin and a 20% profit margin. However, subscriber losses and economic challenges, including inflation and increased taxes, pressured growth. The company made strides in digitalization and sustainability, with significant investments in CapEx and renewable energy.
Lenovo, in partnership with Alat, has begun construction on a new $2 billion manufacturing hub in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The facility, set to produce Saudi-made laptops and servers, aligns with Vision 2030 goals and is expected to create thousands of jobs while enhancing Lenovo’s regional presence in the MEA market.
HP has announced strategic investments in Saudi Arabia, including a new manufacturing facility in Riyadh and an AI and R&D Centre of Excellence in Dhahran. These initiatives aim to boost Saudi Arabia’s technology sector and education programs, contributing to the country’s Vision 2030 goals of digital transformation and workforce development.