Telecom Egypt and Hungary’s 4iG Group have signed a $600 million, 10-year agreement to build a fiber network in Egypt, providing high-speed internet to six million households. The project supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 and the “Digital Egypt” strategy, enhancing the country’s digital transformation efforts.
BMCCI, led by President Shabbir A Khan, met with Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak to discuss technological collaboration and investment with Malaysia. They plan to establish a “Bangladesh IT Connect Portal-Malaysia” to promote investment and strengthen ties. BMCCI will play a key role in this initiative.
Bangladesh’s mobile phone market shipped 4 million units in 1Q24, with a 1.7% YoY growth. Smartphones saw an 11.6% increase, rebounding from a decline due to heavy taxation. Feature phones declined by 5.4%. Key segments showed mixed trends, while 5G growth remains slow. Offline channels dominate, but online sales are rising.
Batelco and Grnata have partnered to provide advanced smart solutions for the Golden Gate residential towers in Bahrain Bay. This collaboration will deliver high-end connectivity, automation, and security, including remote control of apartment features and advanced CCTV systems, enhancing the smart living experience for residents.
ITIDA, Telecom Egypt, and Nokia have signed an MoU to establish an IP Excellence Center in Egypt, expanding Nokia’s operations and boosting Egypt’s ICT services exports. The center will serve 60 countries in the MEA region, leveraging local talent and enhancing Egypt’s role in the global digital ecosystem.
The Committee on Public Finance has approved the Sri Lanka Telecommunications (Amendment) Bill, aiming to regulate satellite-based internet services and modernize industry regulations. The bill, developed with stakeholder input, introduces new licensing types, strengthens the TRC’s powers, and promotes competitive market practices for consumer benefits.
State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak announced the launch of 5G services at Terminal 3 of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in October, following the prime minister’s directive to prioritize airports, seaports, business districts, and industrial zones. The announcement was made during a BTRC meeting in Dhaka.
Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) has selected SpaceX to launch its advanced geostationary satellites, Al Yah 4 (AY4) and Al Yah 5 (AY5), using the Falcon 9 rocket. This agreement is part of a $5.1 billion mandate from the UAE Government, including design, manufacturing, and managed services by Airbus.
Dialog Axiata has completed the acquisition of Airtel Lanka through a share swap. Post-acquisition, Axiata holds 73.75% of Dialog, Bharti Airtel 10.355%, and the public 15.895%. Both brands will continue to serve customers while merging networks to enhance connectivity. The move aims to drive growth and innovation in Sri Lanka’s telecom sector.
Grameenphone, a subsidiary of Telenor, aims to connect 50 million internet users in Bangladesh within five years. The company recently surpassed 50 million subscribers and plans significant annual investments to upgrade its network. Celebratory offers include doubling internet speeds for 3G users. Grameenphone’s network covers 99% of the population.
