Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Zarea has signed a $2m MoU with China’s Wang Chuang Xi Jun Chang Agri to introduce modern seed technologies, agronomic services, and scalable production systems in Pakistan. The partnership targets productivity, supply-chain efficiency, and export linkages, accelerating the modernisation of Pakistan’s agri-value chain.
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.
Consulting HAUS guided Snoonu through its $245 million acquisition by Jahez, valuing the Qatari startup above QAR 1 billion and delivering Qatar’s first billion-riyal tech exit. The deal sets a national benchmark, underscores Qatar’s rise as a tech hub, and accelerates Snoonu’s regional growth ambitions.
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.
Africa’s mobile money and digital economy boom is colliding with an escalating wave of cybercrime. With billions lost annually and attacks targeting banks, telecoms and governments, experts warn fragmented policies and external dependence are leaving the continent exposed. Sustainable growth now hinges on building strong, homegrown cybersecurity capacity.
Egypt’s KNOT Technologies has raised a $1 million pre-seed round led by A15 to scale its AI-native ticketing platform. The startup uses AI to authenticate identity, control distribution, and prevent market leakage, giving organizers greater visibility while rebuilding trust between event owners and audiences.
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.