Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt’s Central Bank and MCIT launched the ‘AI for FinTech’ Hackathon to train DEBI students in AI-driven financial innovation. The initiative strengthens Egypt’s FinTech ecosystem, linking academic learning with real-world banking challenges and promoting youth-led digital transformation.
PayTabs Egypt and Valu have launched a QR-powered merchant app that enables contactless smartphone payments, replacing POS hardware. The solution enhances financial inclusion, reduces costs, and supports Egypt’s digital payment transformation.
MTN Nigeria plans to extend its fiber network to 8 million homes by 2028, supporting the national broadband plan and boosting digital inclusion. The project tackles connectivity gaps through local partnerships and policy alignment with the NCC.
Omantel has partnered with AI startup Decoil to develop “Enterprise Brain,” an AI-driven knowledge platform that enhances data access and organizational intelligence. The secure SaaS solution aligns with Omantel’s Portal to the Future strategy and Oman Vision 2040 to drive digital innovation.
IOM has launched its CinemArena campaign in Bangladesh, bringing mobile film screenings and performances to raise awareness about safe migration. Supported by Italy’s foreign ministry, the initiative will engage 480 villages across three districts, promoting informed choices and dignity in migration.
Pakistan’s Tapmad has entered Bangladesh through a partnership with Grameenphone to stream premium sports content, including the English Premier League and Asia Cup. The expansion marks Tapmad’s first international move as it targets South Asia’s fast-growing digital entertainment market.
BENEFIT and Pay10 signed an MoU to enhance Bahrain’s digital payments ecosystem through interoperability, eKYC integration, and SME support. The partnership promotes secure, cross-border, and cashless transactions aligned with Bahrain’s fintech innovation and Vision 2030 goals.
Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has opened public consultation on a proposal to enable Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) mobile connectivity, enhancing safety, national resilience, and global competitiveness in digital infrastructure.
Vodafone Qatar and Barzan University College, in partnership with Swinburne University, have signed an MoU to enhance ICT services, boost digital literacy, and foster innovation in higher education—supporting Qatar’s vision of a diversified, knowledge-driven economy.
Zimbabwe’s Potraz announced mobile penetration exceeding 102% and internet usage at 81%, driven by its National Broadband Plan. Through GIS-based mapping, regulatory reforms, and public engagement tools, Zimbabwe aims to achieve full digital inclusion and nationwide broadband access by 2030.