Harvard graduates Nicole Mao and Yiwei Zhu have built a successful startup in Bangladesh, creating a battery-swapping network for electric rickshaws. This innovative network, which aims to reach 1,000 stations next year, is gaining rapid popularity and is helping transform urban transportation in the country.
Morocco and Saudi Arabia have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen their partnership in digital transition. The agreement, unveiled during the 19th UN Internet Governance Forum, aims to expand e-government services, foster technological innovation, and enhance bilateral cooperation, with a focus on sustainable digital infrastructure.
InvoiceQ has raised $1.2 million in a pre-Series A funding round, backed by Oasis 500, Orange VC, and other investors. The company specializes in e-invoicing solutions and plans to expand into Oman, Egypt, the UAE, and the GCC. The funds will help accelerate growth and improve service offerings across the MENA region.
Huawei inaugurated the 2024-2025 ME&CA ICT Competition Regional Finals at King Saud University, celebrating the 10th anniversary of its ICT Academy in the region. Over 300 participants from 19 countries competed, marking a significant milestone in digital talent development. Huawei’s efforts continue to drive ICT innovation and education in the region.
Revibe, a UAE-based marketplace for refurbished electronics, raised $7 million in its Series A round to expand its product offerings and accelerate growth in the MENA region. The company aims to enhance customer experience, reduce CO2 emissions, and continue its expansion in emerging markets with a focus on sustainability.
Pakistan has declared 2025 as the “Year of 5G” and unveiled plans to increase broadband speeds to 50-100 Mbps and expand Fibre-To-The-Site (FTTS) coverage to 60%. The government aims to enhance telecom infrastructure with a 5G spectrum auction in 2025 and a nationwide fiber network expansion.
Space42 has secured a $5.1 billion contract with the UAE government to extend communication services for 17 more years. The company will launch Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5 satellites in 2027 and 2028, enhancing government communications across multiple regions. Space42 aims to strengthen its role in secure space technology.
Cairo Metro Line 3 (Green Line) has introduced free Wi-Fi at eight major stations, including Attaba, Bab Al-Shaaria, and Al-Ahram. This initiative, a collaboration between the National Authority for Tunnels, Ministry of Transport, RATP Dev, and Orange Egypt, aims to improve passengers’ commuting experience by offering seamless internet access.
Experts in Dhaka emphasized the need for digital literacy and STEM training to enhance job market readiness for young women. A study revealed barriers to technical training and skill mismatches, recommending sector-specific courses and apprenticeships to bridge gaps. Key leaders stressed the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and inclusive skill development.
Pakistan’s telecom sector faces challenges in its 5G rollout due to a decline in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and sector investments. FDI fell to $46 million in 2023-24, and investments dropped to $765 million, hindering the necessary infrastructure upgrades. The PTA emphasizes the need for government incentives and PPPs to boost investor confidence.
