Dubai-based e& has received European Commission approval to acquire a controlling interest in PPF Telecom, covering operations in Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia, and Slovakia. This decision, which comes three months ahead of schedule, facilitates e&’s strategic expansion into the European telecom sector.
Zoom Video Communications has appointed Mohannad AlKalash as the managing director for the Middle East, Turkey, Africa, and Pakistan. AlKalash will lead Zoom’s expansion in the region, particularly aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. He brings extensive experience from Cisco and has founded the CyberxWorld platform.
Oman reaffirmed its digital leadership ambitions at the “Enhancing and Regulating Connectivity” workshop in Muscat, hosted by Crowe. The event, attended by key telecom and technology stakeholders, focused on advancing digital technology, regulatory challenges, and the financial implications of new telecommunications infrastructure like 5G and cloud systems.
The FAO launched the Digital Agriculture Consortium (DAC) in Islamabad, aiming to transform Pakistan’s agriculture through digital means. The event showcased advanced technologies and discussed strategies to enhance productivity and efficiency. The DAC will integrate key stakeholders to drive the digital transformation of agriculture, fostering collaboration and sustainable development across Pakistan.
ADNOC has partnered with Etisalat to build the largest private 5G network in the energy sector, covering 11,000 square kilometers. The network will enhance IoT connectivity for over 12,000 wells and pipelines, using AI to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity. Expected completion is 2025, generating AED5.5 billion in the first five years.
Türkiye’s indigenous telecommunications satellite, Turksat 6A, will launch next month via a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Expanding coverage to India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, the satellite will increase Türkiye’s reach from 3.5 billion to over 5 billion people, covering more than 65% of the world’s population.
Mastercard and Entreprenelle have partnered to empower Egyptian female entrepreneurs through upskilling workshops, focusing on digital economy skills. This collaboration aims to enhance innovation and growth for women-led businesses, supported by Mastercard’s ‘Her Voice’ podcast series, celebrating female entrepreneurial achievements.
The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) and the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) have signed an MOU to strengthen collaboration between telecommunications and financial services. This partnership aims to enhance financial inclusion, secure telecom networks, and support economic development, marking a significant step in advancing Liberia’s digital economy.
Gulf Bank has introduced the “WAMD” service, allowing customers to transfer money quickly and securely using a phone number via the bank’s mobile app. This new feature, implemented by KNET under the Central Bank of Kuwait’s supervision, enhances Gulf Bank’s digital services, making banking more convenient and accessible for its customers.
Oman, through Omantel, hosts the influential GCCM Middle East 2023, uniting over 600 professionals from 300+ telecom operators from 50+ countries. The event emphasizes networking, industry discussions, and collaboration in the telecom sector.
