Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Egypt’s NTRA will begin disconnecting mobile devices making unregistered promotional calls from 24 August 2025. Offenders face fines and possible imprisonment, while citizens can report nuisance calls through multiple channels. The move follows widespread complaints and aims to better protect user privacy.
Barwa Developments has signed an MoU with Telecom Egypt to equip its projects with advanced communication and smart technology services. The partnership will enhance digital infrastructure across Barwa’s mixed-use developments, boost investment value, and support Egypt’s digital transformation and smart city ambitions.
The EU and BTRC have held talks on data protection, cybersecurity, and the digital economy. The EU reaffirmed its support for Bangladesh’s broadband, 5G, and connectivity goals, pledging technical expertise under its Global Gateway strategy to help build a secure and inclusive digital future.
Tech Mahindra has established a regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia to oversee its Bahrain and Egypt operations. The move complements Pininfarina’s acquisition of Signature S.r.l. and comes amid strong Q1 results with a 34% profit rise, $809 million in deal wins, and steady workforce growth.
Bahrain Space Agency CEO Dr. Mohamed Al Aseeri stressed at an international symposium the importance of modernizing ground stations, updating regulatory frameworks, and integrating space-ground systems to support the satellite revolution. He said Bahrain aims to become a regional hub for satellite communications, boosting investment and economic growth.
Djezzy has launched the Open Innovation Challenge 2025 to support Algerian startups, researchers, and students in developing inclusive digital solutions. The winning project receives 200,000 DZD, mentorship, and access to Djezzy’s network, with the initiative focusing on responsible innovation and scaling impactful technologies for communities across Algeria.
Chad and Niger have launched talks on fiber interconnection under the TSR project, seeking submarine cable access through coastal states to overcome digital isolation. Like other landlocked African nations, they face high transit costs and infrastructure challenges but are exploring redundancy links, satellite internet, IXPs, and data centers to boost resilience.
The AGP has accused Jazz of overcharging customers Rs6.58 billion in FY2023-24, citing weak PTA oversight and blanket tariff approvals. While auditors recommended a formal inquiry, Jazz rejected the allegations, insisting it fully complied with regulatory approvals. PTA’s official response remains pending.
Iraq’s Ministry of Communications denied reports of a contract with Vodafone, clarifying that the mobile license project remains in its initial phase. The ministry rejected the claims as election-driven misinformation, affirming transparency in its work and reserving the right to counter efforts to discredit its national projects.
Jazz, in partnership with the Universal Service Fund, has delivered 24 completed projects providing 4G to over 10.4 million people in 4,900+ unserved areas. With five new projects in 2025, Jazz will connect nearly one million more people, reinforcing its mission of building an inclusive Digital Pakistan.