Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
AI-powered wearable technology is revolutionizing sports by enhancing performance and preventing injuries. By tracking metrics like heart rate and movement in real time, athletes and teams can receive personalized feedback, optimizing training. While challenges like data overload and privacy remain, machine learning simplifies data for actionable insights in real-time.
Pakistan’s ICT sector has grown 25%, with a government target of $25 billion in exports. Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja highlighted the country’s advancements in cybersecurity, e-governance, and digital talent development at the Pak-US Tech Investment Conference. The government is committed to fostering a thriving digital ecosystem for innovation and growth.
Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE) has partnered with the Global Water Organisation to enhance digital and cybersecurity infrastructure, supporting global water resource management and sustainability initiatives.
Airtel Nigeria has implemented a 50% tariff hike, affecting both data plans and call rates. This change, aimed at boosting infrastructure investment, has faced criticism from consumer groups and unions. The Cloud Network Foundation has urged the government to reassess the hike, citing economic hardships and its impact on low-income Nigerians.
Ooredoo has launched an entertaining campaign highlighting its network strength. Through humorous characters representing connectivity issues, the series showcases how Ooredoo solves frustrations, especially for gamers. With local influencers in each market, the campaign emphasizes Ooredoo’s commitment to innovation and seamless connectivity, offering an upgraded user experience.
Eight Pakistani IT students will compete in the regional finals of Huawei’s Seeds for the Future 2024 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The program, part of Huawei’s global CSR initiative, aims to foster innovation and develop IT talent. Participants will receive training in digital skills, cross-cultural exchanges, and hands-on experience with advanced technologies.
China hosted a two-week media training programme under the Belt and Road Initiative, focusing on the role of AI in reshaping the media landscape. The event gathered professionals from several countries to discuss AI’s ethical implications, global competition, and infrastructure challenges.
Algeria’s Ministry of Interior has partnered with Algérie Télécom to provide high-speed internet and fixed-line services to all primary schools, prioritizing low-income areas. This initiative aims to improve education and introduce digital skills to young students, supporting the country’s digital transformation efforts.
Digital recharges now account for 40% of Zong’s total prepaid recharges, demonstrating the success of its digital strategy.
At the UN SDG Digital event, Egypt’s ICT Minister, Amr Talaat, discussed the global digital divide and digitalization’s role in development. He highlighted Egypt’s initiatives in training and infrastructure, aiming to make digital benefits accessible to all, particularly through the expansive “Decent Life” initiative.