Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Bangladesh’s mobile financial services (MFS) reached a record-breaking Tk 1.64 trillion in transactions in December 2024. The country’s total mobile banking transactions for 2024 were Tk 17.37 trillion, marking a 28.42% increase compared to 2023. MFS accounts also grew significantly, reaching 238.6 million by December 2024.
Maxab and Wasoko have completed their merger, creating Africa’s largest B2B retail network with over 450,000 merchants and 4,000 employees across five countries. The combined entity, led by co-CEOs Belal El-Megharbel and Daniel Yu, aims to double its revenue by year-end while enhancing trade between North and East Africa.
Logik.ai’s technology will accelerate ServiceNow’s CRM footprint and momentum in Sales and Order Management Dubai, United Arab Emirates — April…
MoneyGram and Saudi digital wallet tiqmo have partnered to enable cross-border money transfers to over 200 countries. The collaboration expands access to MoneyGram’s global network for tiqmo users, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and advancing financial inclusion across the MENA region.
stc Bahrain’s “Trees for Life” campaign reached a major milestone by planting over 55,000 trees since 2021. In 2024, 27,172 trees were added to green spaces across Bahrain. The initiative supports the country’s national afforestation plan, helping achieve environmental sustainability and Bahrain’s vision of net-zero emissions by 2060.
Huawei has partnered with three leading Egyptian universities to integrate its AI courses into their curricula, offering over 25,000 students free, fully online access to foundational AI education through the Huawei Talent platform. The initiative aims to equip a new generation with essential digital skills and reflects collaboration with UNESCO to promote inclusive, technology-driven learning across Egypt.
The Jordan Maritime Commission (JMC) signed 16 agreements in 2024 to issue IMO-compliant safety certificates, enhancing maritime operations. The JMC also introduced digital services, reducing ship entry permit processing time, and signed an MoU with the UAE on mutual recognition of maritime certificates. The maritime sector continues to evolve with digital initiatives.
Algeria’s National Digital Transformation Strategy aims to position the country as Africa’s digital leader by 2030. The plan includes enhancing infrastructure, human capital, digital governance, and economy, alongside boosting digital access and security. Key initiatives focus on data centres, expert training, and securing the digital space.
The satellite launch supports Oman’s Vision 2040 goals of technological advancement and data-driven solutions for national progress.
The Aani payment platform is transforming digital transactions in the UAE, allowing instant payments for consumers and small merchants. Launched in October 2023, it has enrolled over 1 million customers, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses to accept digital payments easily, enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction.