Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Ericsson has partnered with e& Egypt to launch 5G services across Egypt, supplying its energy-efficient 5G portfolio to enhance connectivity. This initiative coincides with the government’s second phase of 5G licenses for Vodafone Egypt, Orange Egypt, and e& Egypt, aiming to improve network performance and communication quality.
Rack Centre and TelCables Nigeria collaborate to enhance West Africa’s cloud and network infrastructure by integrating major subsea cables, offering scalable cloud services, and enabling direct low-latency routes to Latin America, Europe, and the USA.
TikTok launches a flood information search guide in Nepal, connecting users with verified disaster resources and mental health support to counter misinformation during the monsoon season.
Iraq launches its first fully solar-powered village in Kulak to ensure energy independence and support agriculture amid climate pressures. The Rwanga Foundation’s Green Kurdistan campaign aims to replicate this sustainable model nationwide by 2030 through regional and international cooperation.
Algeria aims for AI to contribute 7% to its GDP by 2027, investing in universities, incubators, and startups. The country is enhancing its digital infrastructure with fiber optics and 4G to support AI-driven economic growth, focusing on sectors like agriculture, industry, and services to transform its economy.
Qatar’s Ministry of Municipality has launched 17 new agricultural services on the ‘Oun’ app as part of its digital transformation initiative. These services include permits for importing agricultural products, productivity certificates, and approvals for agricultural worker recruitment. The project aims to enhance efficiency, simplify procedures, and support smart city development.
Robi reported a 5% revenue decline in Q3 2024, impacted by an internet shutdown and floods. Revenue reached 2,474.4 crore taka, with voice revenue up 3.7% but data revenue down 15.5%. Despite challenges, profit after tax grew significantly, reflecting strong cost efficiency measures.
Kuwait’s new e-visa system streamlines entry for multiple visitor categories, enhancing the country’s appeal as a destination for tourism, business, and diplomacy. This digital innovation supports Kuwait’s ambitions as a regional economic and cultural hub and anticipates greater GCC travel cooperation.
Touch and Zain Omantel International sign roaming deal to reduce fees for Gulf region visitors in Lebanon, enhancing customer convenience by allowing number retention and supporting Lebanon’s telecom sector recovery.
NayaOne has launched Saudi Arabia’s first fully locally hosted sandbox-as-a-service platform, enabling banks and fintechs to accelerate product testing and launch while addressing data sovereignty. Supported by AstroLabs and the UK government, the platform aligns with Vision 2030 and Saudi Arabia’s booming fintech market.