Ericsson, in partnership with e& UAE, has successfully verified the Reduced Capability (RedCap) software solution on e& UAE’s 5G Standalone (5G SA) network. This marks the first implementation of Ericsson’s RedCap solution in a commercial network in the Middle East and Africa region, enabling new types of 5G IoT devices and offering new monetization opportunities in both consumer and industrial spaces.
China Mobile Pakistan (CMPak), operating under the Zong 4G brand, expanded its network and completed a significant modernization project in the first half of 2024. Zong 4G deployed over 400 new 4G sites and upgraded its base stations with 8T8R technology to enhance customer experience along the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor. Additionally, Zong upgraded over 1,400 battery banks to Li-Ion solutions for improved efficiency.
Kuwait’s National Mobile Telecommunications Company (Ooredoo) reported a 9% increase in consolidated revenue for the first half of 2024, reaching KD346 million ($1.1 billion). The growth was driven by strong performance in Kuwait, Maldives, Tunisia, and Algeria. The customer base grew by 4% to 25.5 million, and EBITDA increased by 8% to KD125 million. Net profit attributable to NMTC decreased to KD25 million due to a one-time gain in H1 2023, but excluding this gain, net profit would have been 23% higher.
Saudi Arabia’s Emerging Technology Adoption Readiness Index improved from 60.35% to 70.70% in one year. The increase in participating agencies, along with advancements in AI, drones, digital twinning, and other technologies, highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to modernizing its digital infrastructure and aligns with Vision 2030 goals.
Jordan’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, in partnership with Blockexe, has launched the Modee Dlt blockchain network to enhance trust in government services. This initiative, part of the Digital Transformation Strategy (2021-2025), aims to improve transparency, efficiency, and competitiveness in e-government services.
Oman is set to become a regional telecommunications hub with its advanced network and rural connectivity initiatives. Significant progress in digital infrastructure and the space industry supports this development, with extensive fibreoptic and 5G network deployments enhancing connectivity nationwide.
ITIDA and DXC Technology Egypt have signed an MoU to enhance Egypt’s software industry by leveraging ITIDA’s SECC for training and certifications. The partnership aims to boost software exports and elevate Egypt’s position as a global IT services hub.
Libya, Morocco, and Seychelles lead Africa in ICT development, as per the ITU’s 2024 report. Despite improvements across the continent, disparities remain, with Libya scoring 88.1 points and Chad at the bottom with 21.3 points.
Ooredoo reported a 9% revenue growth in H1 2024, reaching KD346 million ($1.1 billion), driven by strong performance in Kuwait, Maldives, Tunisia, and Algeria. Customer base increased by 4% to 25.5 million, and EBITDA grew by 8% to KD125 million. Net profit attributable to NMTC decreased to KD25 million due to a one-time gain in H1 2023.
Egypt plans to boost its ICT sector’s contribution to GDP from 5.8% to 8% by 2030. Minister Amr Talaat emphasized strategic collaborations and investments in submarine cables, cloud computing, and local mobile manufacturing. Initiatives include training programs for 500,000 ICT professionals annually, expanding digital innovation centers, and enhancing digital infrastructure, including broadband coverage and fiber optic networks, to support these goals.
