Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt’s telecom regulator has instructed mobile operators to grant five free international minutes to subscribers calling six Arab countries, helping families stay connected during regional tensions. The Foreign Ministry has also launched a WhatsApp hotline to assist Egyptians abroad.
UNICEF has launched a continent-wide procurement initiative to connect up to 500,000 schools and child-focused institutions across Africa. The programme will prequalify service providers through a Request for Expression of Interest, with a competitive tender planned for Q2 2026.
Vodafone has partnered with Amazon’s LEO satellite network to expand 4G and 5G coverage in remote areas across Europe and Africa. The deal will improve rural connectivity, strengthen network resilience, and support Vodacom’s long-term growth strategy, with the first sites set to go live in 2026.
Djezzy has launched its 5G network in 18 provinces across Algeria, enhancing connectivity and supporting the country’s digital transformation efforts.
Vodafone Qatar’s shareholders approved a 12% cash dividend after the company posted a 16.8% rise in net profit to QR 702 million in 2025. Revenue increased 8.1% to QR 3.4 billion, and all AGM resolutions, including auditor appointment and board approvals, were passed unanimously.
AWS data centres in Bahrain and the UAE experienced connectivity disruptions after one UAE Availability Zone lost power due to objects striking the facility and causing a fire. Other zones remained operational, with traffic rerouted. AWS reported partial recovery but advised customers to use alternative regions amid ongoing regional tensions.
Bangladesh plans to provide free Wi-Fi at airports, railway stations, and high-speed vehicles to enhance connectivity and support ICT sector growth. The move aligns with the government’s vision for broader internet access, digital modernization, and employment generation in technology fields.
Skynopy and Safran Space have received funding to integrate Kenya Space Agency’s Earth observation antenna into Skynopy’s global ground station network. SkyConnect Kenya optimizes satellite communication, strengthens local space capabilities, and demonstrates a replicable public–private partnership model for underutilized infrastructure.
Axiata will not issue 2026 earnings guidance due to asset consolidation and restructuring. The Malaysian telecom company is monetising key assets, exiting select markets, and preparing a portfolio split between telecom and technology segments by 2027. Investor entry into fintech arm Boost Holdings has also been delayed to Q2 2026.
Orange Maroc has launched Yo Max 5G customizable mobile plans and the Livebox 7 Fiber with Wi-Fi 7 technology. Developed with global partners, the solutions offer personalized digital experiences, enhanced home connectivity, and advanced security features, reinforcing the operator’s role in Morocco’s digital transformation journey.