The Committee on Public Finance has approved the Sri Lanka Telecommunications (Amendment) Bill, aiming to regulate satellite-based internet services and modernize industry regulations. The bill, developed with stakeholder input, introduces new licensing types, strengthens the TRC’s powers, and promotes competitive market practices for consumer benefits.
The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) represented Saudi Arabia at the Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR24) in Kampala, Uganda. The event fostered discussions among global ICT regulators and stakeholders, with Saudi Arabia showcasing its leadership in digital regulations. The symposium facilitated knowledge exchange and collaboration among over 70 nations.
State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak announced the launch of 5G services at Terminal 3 of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in October, following the prime minister’s directive to prioritize airports, seaports, business districts, and industrial zones. The announcement was made during a BTRC meeting in Dhaka.
GKT eSIM introduced its Digital Kiosk Display at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, designed for easy eSIM purchases in hotels, resorts, and airports. The company also announced special offers for UEFA Euro Cup 2024 and France Olympics 2024, providing unlimited data plans for travelers.
Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) has selected SpaceX to launch its advanced geostationary satellites, Al Yah 4 (AY4) and Al Yah 5 (AY5), using the Falcon 9 rocket. This agreement is part of a $5.1 billion mandate from the UAE Government, including design, manufacturing, and managed services by Airbus.
Dialog Axiata has completed the acquisition of Airtel Lanka through a share swap. Post-acquisition, Axiata holds 73.75% of Dialog, Bharti Airtel 10.355%, and the public 15.895%. Both brands will continue to serve customers while merging networks to enhance connectivity. The move aims to drive growth and innovation in Sri Lanka’s telecom sector.
Grameenphone, a subsidiary of Telenor, aims to connect 50 million internet users in Bangladesh within five years. The company recently surpassed 50 million subscribers and plans significant annual investments to upgrade its network. Celebratory offers include doubling internet speeds for 3G users. Grameenphone’s network covers 99% of the population.
Kuwait reaffirmed its dedication to human rights principles in AI during the OIC’s 23rd IPHRC session in Jeddah. Diplomatic Attaché Jana Al-Dhafiri emphasized the need for international cooperation to harness AI’s benefits and address challenges like inequality, highlighting Kuwait’s AI advancements and commitment to aligning with global standards and sustainable development goals.
Egypt and Burkina Faso are enhancing digital cooperation, focusing on sharing expertise and developing digital infrastructure. This collaboration aims to support Egypt’s “Digital Egypt 2030” strategy and Burkina Faso’s efforts to modernize public services, fostering technological partnerships and economic opportunities for both nations.
BIGTECH 2024, held at the Kram Exhibition Centre, gathers 1,000 startups and companies to position Tunisia as a technology hub in Africa. The event promotes innovation, AI, IoT, and digital transformation, supported by government initiatives in digital infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and the simplification of administrative procedures.
