Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Madica has invested $800,000 in four African startups, providing $200,000 to each. The startups focus on healthtech, femtech, e-mobility, and AI. With this round of funding, Madica aims to support high-growth businesses, emphasizing gender diversity in leadership and expansion into North Africa, targeting profitable exits.
Network International and Blu Penguin partner to integrate mobile money payments on N-Genius terminals in Ghana, enhancing financial inclusion and offering unified, seamless payment solutions for merchants and consumers. This initiative supports the expansion of digital payments across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Oman’s TRA has introduced strict new rules on telecom pricing and promotions to prevent price wars, protect consumers, and maintain fair competition. Measures include limits on offers, intervention triggers on steep price drops, and stricter oversight of dominant operators, with the framework set for ongoing review.
Oman is accelerating its digital transformation, with plans to digitize 80% of government services by 2025. The ‘Tahawul’ programme has reached 73% completion, improving efficiency, cybersecurity, and data sharing. The government is introducing new platforms and policies to align with Oman Vision 2040.
Omantel has successfully concluded its Extended Reality Bootcamp, bringing together 37 tech enthusiasts to explore Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Mixed Reality. The event, aimed at fostering innovation and supporting Oman’s Vision 2040, featured industry experts and focused on equipping participants with essential XR skills for future tech entrepreneurship.
The National Events Center is hosting the second EventTech meetup in Riyadh, focusing on AI, data science, and innovation to transform the events industry. The event fosters collaboration among tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors.
Huawei has partnered with Telecom Egypt to enhance 5G services in Egypt and North Africa. The collaboration involves deploying advanced solutions, including BladeAAU and Pico Radio, to support 5G networks. This partnership helps Telecom Egypt strengthen its position as a leading ICT operator and accelerate Egypt’s digital transformation.
The service aims to provide organizations with customized Generative AI solutions to improve workforce efficiency amidst a talent shortage.
General Assembly Bahrain and KPMG Bahrain have signed a strategic MoU to develop a strong tech talent pipeline and accelerate digital transformation. The partnership includes specialized training programs and highlights successful hiring of GA graduates from diverse backgrounds, supporting Bahrain’s vision for a skilled, knowledge-based economy.
Egypt-based agritech startup Viridia Tech has been awarded the $100,000 grand prize at the 2024 Mega Green Accelerator in Saudi Arabia for its data analytics platform that enhances sustainable farming practices. The competition showcased innovative solutions to food security, clean energy, and the circular economy across the MENA region.