Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Afghanistan’s IT Minister, Maulvi Najibullah Hayat Haqqani, met with Paktika Province tribal leaders to discuss communication issues. He announced plans to build 25 new communication sites across the province, aiming to improve connectivity and address local challenges. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing communication infrastructure in the region.
Damac Capital, the investment arm of Damac Group, reports strong ROI from its strategic investments in SpaceX and Stripe. These investments highlight the group’s commitment to advancing global technology and innovation. Damac Capital is also expanding into AI, supporting high-growth companies poised to lead in their industries and drive global economic progress.
Zain Group’s Q2 2024 results show a 79% net profit increase, with revenue growing 4% YoY to KD 479 million (USD 1.6 billion). Customer base soared 13% to 47.8 million. Key highlights include growth in 5G revenues, fintech services, and digital operator entities, despite challenges in Sudan.
Orange Jordan celebrated the one-year anniversary of its 5G services with a panel discussion at the Innovation Hub, featuring experts discussing the transformative impact of 5G on various sectors. The event emphasized the role of 5G in driving innovation and growth, aligning with Orange Jordan’s commitment to raising awareness and fostering technological advancements.
### AOI Localizes Cellular Tower Manufacturing in Egypt
The Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI) has inaugurated the Cellular Tower Manufacturing Center at its Aircraft Factory, marking a significant step in localizing the manufacturing of cellular towers in Egypt. Mokhtar Abdel Latif, Chairperson of the AOI, led the inauguration, which was attended by Abdul Rahman Osman, General Manager of AOI; Tarek Hassan, Chairperson of the Aircraft Factory; and several industry leaders.
This initiative is part of AOI’s ongoing efforts to localize technology, increase the percentage of local manufacturing, and produce items under the “Made in Egypt” banner. Abdel Latif highlighted the focus on localizing mobile phone communication tower technology and upgrading production lines with the latest digital manufacturing machines. The center features some of the world’s most advanced production lines for angle forming and cutting, with engineers and technicians trained to the latest Fourth Industrial Revolution standards.
The Aircraft Factory of AOI has successfully achieved 100% local manufacturing of mobile phone communication towers. The factory has begun supplying towers to Etisalat&e, fulfilling the company’s increasing demands. By June 2024, 67 communication towers had been manufactured and supplied to Etisalat&e, with 70 more towers in production for delivery by the end of September 2024.
Abdel Latif noted ongoing coordination to sign memorandums of understanding with Telecom Egypt and other major telecom companies to expand mass production of communication towers. He emphasized AOI’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with all Egyptian telecom companies and developing integrated smart solutions in design, manufacturing, and assembly, driven by Egyptian creativity and national manufacturing capabilities. This initiative aims to meet local market needs and expand exports to African and Arab countries.
Huawei hosted the Bahrain leg of the ME&CA Commercial Roadshow, showcasing ICT solutions for key sectors. The event emphasized Bahrain’s digital transformation and Vision 2030 goals. Highlights included Huawei’s new eKit platform for SMEs, the Commercial Market Growth Incentive Program, and partnerships with stc Bahrain to develop 5.5G networks and ICT training programs.
EFG Hermes ONE, the flagship trading app from EFG Hermes, has launched its revamped platform with a new brand identity and advanced features. The app offers a user-friendly experience, pioneering e-KYC digital onboarding, diverse trading options, and comprehensive portfolio management tools. It aims to make investing accessible and seamless for users in Egypt, Kuwait, and the UAE.
Zain Bahrain has partnered with the British Council to enhance employee skills through innovative assessment and training solutions. This collaboration aims to improve English proficiency and soft skills, aligning with Zain Bahrain’s commitment to continuous employee development. The initiative ensures impactful training, fostering a culture of learning within the organization.
Bahrain achieved an 89% digital transformation rate in 2024, completing over 4 million eGovernment transactions. Key advancements include expanding eServices to over 700, reducing costs by 75%, and launching new systems like Sijilat 3.0. These efforts reflect Bahrain’s commitment to digital transformation and service quality improvement across all societal sectors.
A Boston Consulting Group report reveals that 85% of GCC senior executives prioritize innovation, surpassing the global average. However, GCC firms face challenges in converting ambition into readiness. Key recommendations include aligning innovation with business strategy and leveraging Generative AI. Addressing talent constraints and funding challenges will enhance innovation readiness.