Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Morocco plans to launch a 5G network ahead of the 2025 African Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup. The country aims for 25% 5G coverage by 2026 and 70% by 2030. The “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy also includes fiber optic expansion and job creation, boosting digital exports and reducing rural-urban disparities.
**Slovenia and Algeria Forge Bilateral Space Collaboration for Satellite Technology Development**
Dejan Gacnik, Technical Director at SkyLabs d.o.o., announced that productive meetings were held in Algiers between the Algerian Space Agency (ASAL), the Slovenian Space Office, and representatives from both nations’ space industries. These discussions laid the groundwork for enhanced cooperation in space technologies and applications.
A key moment in the meeting was led by Ms. Tanja Permozer, Head of the Slovenian Space Office, who showcased the potential opportunities for both nations in the space sector. Her leadership and vision emphasized the mutual commitment to collaboration between Slovenia and Algeria.
Gacnik, who participated in the discussions, highlighted the shared interests in satellite technology, having met with Dr. Mohammed Kameche, Director of the Satellite Development Centre at ASAL, and Dr. Habib Mahi, Director of the Centre of Technologies. The cooperation was further reinforced during a meeting with ASAL’s Director General, Dr. Azzedine Oussedik.
ASAL has identified SkyLabs as a key partner for providing critical technologies for Algeria’s upcoming satellite constellation missions. This collaboration between Algeria and Slovenia is set to be formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), underscoring the strategic importance of this partnership for both nations.
Additionally, the Slovenian Ambassador to Algeria, Ms. Urška Kramberger Mendek, accompanied the Slovenian delegation, further highlighting the diplomatic significance of the collaboration.
This partnership is expected to drive significant advancements in satellite technology and strengthen the space programs of both Algeria and Slovenia.
Zain sponsored the second edition of the Innovation and Excellence Award organized by the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, showcasing digital solutions for public sector transformation. The event highlighted Zain’s successful collaboration on the Smart Meters project and its commitment to advancing Kuwait’s digital and technological innovation.
Qatar has launched the 2024 Digital Inclusion Index to ensure equal access to digital services, highlighting the nation’s achievements in digital infrastructure and education. The initiative supports Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030, aiming to increase digital access, competencies, and trust through targeted programs and investments in emerging technologies.
Ooredoo has secured Kuwait’s first Fibre in the Gulf (FIG) submarine cable landing, enhancing regional and global connectivity. With a capacity of up to 480 Tbps, the cable will support cloud services, AI, and digital transformation. This project strengthens Kuwait’s position as a key data transit hub.
Cyshield and Thales launch Egypt’s first eSIM service, enabling flexible, secure connectivity for consumers and IoT devices. Supporting all major operators, the platform allows seamless subscription management and has already served over 400,000 users. The initiative advances Egypt’s digital sovereignty and IoT connectivity ecosystem.
The Ministry of National Education in Algeria has launched the Taqiim platform, a digital tool for evaluating the achievements of fifth-grade students. This platform streamlines the grading process, offers standardized assessments, and allows teachers to track student progress. It promotes more efficient, transparent evaluations, helping educators pinpoint learning gaps.
Qualcomm and Aramco Digital have unveiled the world’s first AI-enabled industrial 5G smartphone at LEAP 2025. Powered by Qualcomm’s QCM8550 and QCM6490 processors, the device aims to enhance connectivity for 5G IoT, edge computing, and industrial applications, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and driving global industrial transformation.
stc Bahrain has reached a milestone in its “Trees for Life” campaign, planting over 55,000 trees across the Kingdom since 2021. In 2024, 27,172 trees were planted, contributing to Bahrain’s national afforestation goals. The campaign promotes sustainability, supports the government’s net-zero vision, and strengthens community engagement.
Pakistan has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China to enhance cybersecurity cooperation. The MoU focuses on research, policy development, and the prevention of cyberattacks. Additionally, the cabinet approved the establishment of an IT Accelerator Center in Islamabad and several key appointments within national organizations.