Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt’s Ministry of Communications launched “Digitopia,” a national IT innovation competition with EGP 10 million in prizes, targeting students and young professionals to foster digital creativity and build a knowledge-based economy.
Bangladesh’s licensed tower companies launched the TowerCo Association to boost industry collaboration and policy reform. Supported by BTRC’s NICSP framework, stakeholders call for regulatory clarity, infrastructure sharing, and faster permitting to drive digital inclusion and telecom growth.
Bangladesh’s telecom ministry ordered removal of the internet shutdown clause from the telecom law and called for reforming surveillance systems to align with international standards, enhancing digital rights and legal oversight.
EazyPay and Mastercard launched Mastercard Receivables Manager in Bahrain, automating B2B virtual card payments to improve efficiency and cash flow. The platform requires minimal integration and reinforces Bahrain’s role as a fintech innovation hub in the growing global digital payments market.
Bahrain launched a national AI policy aligned with GCC ethical guidelines to ensure responsible AI use, foster public trust, and boost government efficiency. The policy promotes training, legal compliance, and innovation to support the Kingdom’s digital transformation and sustainable development goals.
Nokia is supplying technology for the 8,700 km Medusa submarine cable connecting Europe and North Africa with 480 Tbps capacity. The project will boost regional broadband, reduce costs, and enable 5G and AI growth, with service expected by 2026.
Algeria joined PAPSS, expanding the network to 18 African countries. The move supports reduced transaction costs and faster cross-border payments, fostering stronger economic integration and trade within the continent.
Dialog Axiata has expanded 5G roaming to 40 countries and launched an affordable 5G smartphone in Sri Lanka priced at $120. The move enhances global connectivity and supports increased 5G adoption domestically.
Saudi Arabia’s KACARE and SWA developed a solar-powered, zero-carbon desalination system using forward osmosis technology, reducing wastewater by 20%. The project supports the Kingdom’s water security goals and advances its shift towards sustainable, low-carbon energy solutions.
BENEFIT and General Assembly Bahrain partnered to develop national tech talent through recruitment access, specialized training programs, and collaborative events, aiming to enhance workforce skills and support fintech innovation in the Kingdom.