Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s software industry association P@SHA has backed the government’s $1 billion AI investment plan, supporting initiatives to fund AI research, train one million professionals, and expand digital capabilities. The programme aims to strengthen IT exports, accelerate innovation, and position Pakistan competitively in the global AI economy.
Artificial Intelligence is being positioned as a core driver of Pakistan’s digital transformation, with national initiatives focusing on AI adoption across governance, industry, and education. Huawei highlighted its full-stack AI and ICT approach aimed at supporting infrastructure development, capacity building, and long-term digital ecosystem growth in the country.
PTA has opened public consultation on the proposed merger between Telenor Pakistan and Ufone’s parent PTML, following PTCL’s acquisition of Telenor Pakistan. The regulator will assess competition, spectrum concentration, and consumer impact before granting approvals required to complete the telecom sector consolidation.
Pakistan has retained its ITU G5 regulator status with a score of 75.77 in the 2025 benchmark, reflecting progress in regulatory reform, spectrum management, and digital policy alignment. The achievement strengthens the country’s standing in international telecom forums and signals continued advancement toward higher regulatory maturity.
Oman is conducting Starlink satellite trials to expand high-speed connectivity in rural areas, with schools among the early beneficiaries. The initiative complements ongoing 5G and broadband expansion efforts as the TRA prepares infrastructure to support AI adoption, investment growth, and nationwide digital inclusion.
Ncell reported turnover exceeding Rs 8 billion in the first quarter, with improved operating income margins and expanded debt facilities. The results come amid ongoing ownership transition processes and reflect broader adjustments in Nepal’s telecommunications market environment.
Morocco is advancing digital governance, AI innovation, and 5G expansion under its Maghreb Digital Vision 2030 strategy. Initiatives include legal frameworks for digital services, national AI programs, and infrastructure investments aimed at improving connectivity, public service delivery, and inclusive digital transformation across the Kingdom.
Morocco has reinstated the national hotline 5757 during Ramadan to enable consumers to report fraud, safety violations, and unfair business practices. The unified complaint system aims to improve response efficiency, strengthen market oversight, and enhance consumer protection during a period of heightened commercial activity.
Maroc Telecom reported net profit of 6.969 billion dirhams in 2025, boosted by prior-year adjustments linked to a regulatory settlement. Adjusted profit declined as the operator increased 5G investment, while subscriber growth was driven by expansion across its African Moov Africa operations.
Magnum Egypt, a graduate of TIEC’s StartIt incubation programme, has been acquired by AntX to expand research and development capabilities across robotics, automation, and IoT technologies. The move highlights growing momentum in Egypt’s startup ecosystem and the role of incubation programmes in supporting scalable technology innovation.