Egypt has reduced its mobile phone import bill by 99.9% in early 2024, shifting towards local manufacturing with eight new factories. Government discussions are underway on potential import fees, with calls for grace periods and exemptions. This move aligns with Egypt’s plan to boost self-reliance and cut foreign currency reliance.
Bahrain’s UNDP and Derasat are collaborating on a National Human Development Report to enhance digital transformation. The report will provide a roadmap for bridging the digital divide, boosting cybersecurity, and integrating technology into public services to support inclusive growth aligned with Bahrain Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the government’s commitment to achieving $25 billion in IT exports in the next three years. During a meeting with VEON Group, he discussed the rollout of 5G services and emphasized digital transformation and collaboration in areas like IT and artificial intelligence to drive a “Digital Pakistan.”
Dialog Axiata PLC reported its earnings for Q3 and the nine months ending September 30, 2024. Q3 sales decreased to LKR 42.83 billion, while net income rose to LKR 4.50 billion. For the nine months, sales were LKR 125.38 billion, with net income dropping to LKR 5.69 billion.
VEON’s Jazz has partnered with Standard Chartered Bank to establish a regional availability zone through its enterprise solutions arm, Garaj. This collaboration aims to enhance SCB’s operational resilience and customer experience by providing advanced data center services in Pakistan, reinforcing both companies’ commitment to digital transformation.
du, a Dubai-based telecom provider, has launched a revamped B2B portfolio, introducing two new sub-brands, du Tech and du Infra. These initiatives aim to enhance digital transformation solutions for businesses in the UAE, focusing on connectivity, ICT solutions, and advanced technology to support economic growth and innovation.
Helios Towers expects continued growth in 2025, driven by rising digital demand in Africa and the Middle East. The company projects adjusted EBITDA of $420 million for the year, while also reporting a 2% increase in third-quarter adjusted EBITDA to $105.7 million, with a growing number of tenants.
Ooredoo Qatar has launched upgraded postpaid plans, including new Shahry+ and Qatarna+ options, offering increased data allowances, flexibility, and exclusive benefits. The plans feature enhanced connectivity and services for both local and international use, aiming to enhance digital lifestyles for customers in Qatar.
Oman Broadband Company has reached 301,000 active subscribers to its fibre optic network and plans to expand coverage to one million units across all governorates by next year. The company aims to enhance digital connectivity and support the local economy, with a commitment to quality service and infrastructure development.
Moroccan company Panafsat has partnered with Thales Alenia Space to develop a satellite communications system aimed at delivering very high-throughput services to 26 African countries. The initiative, signed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Morocco, aims to enhance digital connectivity and bridge the digital divide in rural areas.
