Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
CINET’s internship programme develops Kuwaiti students’ skills in cybersecurity and data science, supporting the country’s digital transformation and fintech innovation goals.
The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) concluded its fourth general assembly in Amman, signing memorandums of understanding with key global partners. The event highlighted Jordan’s leadership in advancing the digital economy and marked the transition of presidency to Kuwait for 2025, with a continued focus on inclusive digital growth.
Afghanistan’s Minister of Telecommunications pledges 46 new telecom sites in Khost to improve connectivity and bridge urban-rural gaps. Adding to 11 existing towers, the expansion aims to enhance internet access and address service unreliability in remote areas, advancing Afghanistan’s goal for universal digital connectivity.
DPI Venture Capital, a new investment unit from DPI, has acquired Egyptian fintech fund manager Nclude, aiming to boost financial inclusion and access across Africa and the Middle East. The firm will focus on seed to Series C investments in tech companies enabling financial services for underserved consumers, particularly in Egypt.
Axian Telecom acquires an 8% stake in Jumia, reaffirming support for Africa’s digital economy amid Jumia’s restructuring and market challenges. The move aligns with Axian’s mission to expand inclusive digital services through its Yas and Mixx by Yas brands.
EduFi, a Pakistani education fintech startup, won $250,000 at the LEAP 2025 tech conference in Saudi Arabia, securing first place in the Rocket Fuel Pitch Competition. The competition saw over 2,000 startups compete, and EduFi’s innovative student financing solution impressed investors, marking a historic win for Pakistan.
Salam has been recognized as the fastest growing telecom brand in Saudi Arabia for 2024 at the 5th Annual Business Tabloid Awards. The company’s strategic initiatives, including fiber optic network sales and global cybersecurity partnerships, underscore its role in driving Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation aligned with Vision 2030.
Ooredoo has partnered with Kloudville to launch a B2B digital marketplace offering AI, cloud, and cybersecurity solutions for SMBs. The platform, built on Kloudville’s Marketplace 360, empowers businesses to easily access essential digital services. The marketplace will roll out across MENA from 2025, driving digital transformation in the region.
Safaricom, M-Pesa Africa, and Sumitomo Corporation launch the Spark Accelerator program to support Kenyan start-ups, providing mentorship, funding, and go-to-market strategies to address the challenges of securing funding, market access, and scaling.
Qara will leverage the NTDP’s Relocate Initiative to establish its presence in the Saudi Arabian market and contribute to the country’s Vision 2030 goals.