Kuwait is strengthening its partnership with Google Cloud to accelerate its national digital transformation as part of the 2035 vision. Communication Minister Omar Al-Omar announced a joint training program focused on developing skills in AI and Cybersecurity, aimed at fostering a new generation of tech leaders in the country.
IT spending in the MENA region is projected to reach $193.7 billion in 2024, a 5.2% increase from 2023. Growth is driven by IT services, while data centre investments decline. GenAI’s immediate impact is limited, but cloud services spending is set to rise, with a focus on cost-effective use cases.
Mustapha Meloui, President of the Moroccan Observatory for Digital Sovereignty, highlighted Morocco’s strides toward becoming a leading “Digital Nation” in Africa, backed by strong ICT metrics and national programs. The upcoming “Maroc Digital 2030” strategy aims to position Morocco as a premier digital hub on the continent.
Orange Business has completed the first phase of a crucial infrastructure project for Grifols Egypt, establishing a modern data center to support the nation’s healthcare advancements.
ICAEW and UAE Banks Federation have partnered to guide companies through the UAE’s evolving digital assets landscape, with a focus on Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). The collaboration emphasizes the UAE’s leadership in financial innovation, the importance of cybersecurity, and the need for standardized accounting practices to ensure secure, compliant digital integration.
Telenor, Grameenphone, and Plan International have launched the “Digital Inclusion: Safe Digital Space for Girls and Youth Project” to empower over 2.35 million marginalized women and youth in Bangladesh, focusing on enhancing digital literacy, skills, and creating a safe online environment.
Kuwait has launched securities-based crowdfunding platforms to diversify financing for small projects through licensed digital platforms. This initiative, led by the Capital Markets Authority, marks a significant step in advancing Kuwait’s financial markets, promoting fairness, competitiveness, and transparency, and supporting the country’s digital infrastructure and entrepreneurial growth.
Tunisia is poised to enhance its digital infrastructure with the introduction of 5G technology, expected by year-end. This initiative, part of a broader digital transformation strategy, involves major telecom providers like Tunisie Telecom, Ooredoo Tunisie, and Orange Tunisie, who have recently applied for 5G licenses.
FinVolution Group has launched Daira, its new fintech platform in Pakistan, marking a major step in its global expansion. The platform aims to address the country’s financial inclusion gap by providing localized digital financial services. With this launch, FinVolution strengthens its presence in South Asia’s growing fintech market.
Yango will showcase its advanced business process optimization solutions at Seamless 2024 in Dubai. Highlights include autonomous last-mile delivery robots, an AI-driven robotic pick-and-place platform, and comprehensive tech solutions for e-grocery businesses. These innovations aim to enhance operational efficiency and provide a competitive edge for Middle East businesses.
