The Qatar Digital Business Award 2024 recognized outstanding digital innovation and transformation across various sectors. With 14 award categories, this year’s winners were celebrated for their contributions to digital advancements, including AI, cybersecurity, and smart solutions. The awards reflect Qatar’s commitment to building a competitive digital economy aligned with Vision 2030.
Kazakhstan’s Astana Hub, home to 1,600 IT companies, is making global strides with projects like the Alaqan palm print recognition system, Higgsfield AI, and Codiplay. These initiatives, along with others, are being exported internationally, showcasing Kazakhstan’s growing influence in the tech and education sectors.
A report by the International Telecommunication Union reveals that Africa’s internet usage has surged from 181 million users in 2014 to nearly 646 million today, with projections indicating over 1.1 billion users by 2029. The cost of data has dropped significantly, driving greater internet access and growth in mobile internet usage.
Mauritanian telecom company Mattel, in partnership with Huawei, has launched 5G tests in Mauritania. The tests showcased applications across various sectors, achieving speeds around 2 Gb/s. This initiative is part of Mattel’s strategy for high-speed connectivity and digital transition in Mauritania, marking a significant step in the country’s technological advancement.
Bahrain’s Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning has signed an agreement with Batelco to offer exclusive benefits to housing beneficiaries in 2025. The partnership aims to enhance services such as special rates for mobile, broadband, and devices, while providing dedicated support for housing projects.
Telecom experts suggest that Teletalk, Bangladesh’s state-owned mobile operator, can revitalize its services through significant investment and innovative strategies. Recommendations include a joint venture with BTCL and a focus on data services to improve customer engagement and operational efficiency, addressing current challenges and enhancing competitiveness in the telecom market.
SalamAir has launched a dedicated WhatsApp service that allows passengers to receive their tickets and boarding passes directly, enhancing the travel experience. This is part of the airline’s digital transformation strategy, aiming to offer greater flexibility and personalization with tech-driven solutions.
PTCL has restored full internet services in Pakistan following the repair of the AAE-1 undersea cable. After facing slow speeds and access issues in 2024, PTCL teams worked swiftly to resolve disruptions. The added bandwidth minimized service interruptions, ensuring smooth browsing for users, including on major social platforms.
A new app developed by Virginia Tech and Medina Tech Ltd. aims to help Bangladeshi farmers identify and manage crop pests. The Groundnut IPM app provides crucial pest management information, using AI for real-time detection and GPS for location-based recommendations. The app, available in Bengali, is free and will be piloted to 1,000 farmers.
IHS Towers has sold its Kuwait operations, including a 70% stake in IHS Kuwait, to Zain Group. This strategic divestment, involving over 2,300 sites, aligns with IHS’s efforts to streamline operations and focus on more profitable markets. The move strengthens the company’s balance sheet and supports future growth initiatives.
