Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
AfICTA and EiTESAL are supporting Egyptian and African IT firms to join the 24 Fintech conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from September 3 to 5. This event, crucial for financial technology across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for digital transformation and offers substantial networking and showcasing opportunities.
Zain Bahrain has partnered with AlSalam Gas Electronics to offer exclusive benefits to AlSalam’s customers, including free rental on selected fiber plans and valuable vouchers. This collaboration, marked by a signing ceremony at Zain Bahrain Tower, aims to enhance customer satisfaction and service innovation.
Egypt ranks fifth globally for affordable internet, with an average cost of $8.31 per month, enhancing its technological accessibility. The country’s advancements in broadband speed and increases in mobile and fixed internet subscriptions highlight its growing digital connectivity, crucial for supporting its youthful population’s potential for innovation.
Bahrain’s Survey and Land Registration Bureau has partnered with Aetosky and Planet to introduce an AI-enhanced urban planning system using high-resolution satellite imagery. This system improves urban management by monitoring changes and streamlining building permit processes, advancing Bahrain’s commitment to smart, sustainable urban development.
iBLOCKCHAIN and Nesma United Industries have formed a strategic partnership to drive ‘Intelligent Transformation’ in Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector. This alliance, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, will leverage advanced technologies like AI and blockchain to enhance operational capabilities and set new standards in industrial operations.
Corero Network Security has partnered with stc Bahrain to enhance telecom security with advanced DDoS protection services. This collaboration strengthens stc Bahrain’s commitment to service quality and innovation, providing robust protection against both external and internal DDoS threats. The partnership sets a new standard for telecom security in the region.
WorldLink has launched its FTTH fiber internet service in Taplejung, Koshi Province, enhancing connectivity for residents, businesses, and government bodies. This expansion supports digital inclusion and provides high-speed internet access, IPTV, and improved opportunities in education, healthcare, and business in remote Nepal. WorldLink plans to extend services nationwide.
Telenor Pakistan has launched 4G services in Hunza and upgraded its network in Gilgit and Skardu, enhancing connectivity and driving digital transformation in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. This initiative aims to boost local tourism, expand e-commerce, and support economic growth, positioning the region as a digital hub in Pakistan.
Tunisia’s Ministry of Communication Technologies and INT are cracking down on unregistered SIM cards to combat cybercrime and fraud. Telecom operators must deactivate improperly registered SIM cards until valid ID verification is completed. This initiative aims to update subscriber data, curb unauthorized SIM sales, and address inflated mobile subscriber figures in the country.
Grameenphone and Robi Axiata have secured an additional 20 MHz of spectrum each in Bangladesh’s 2.6 GHz band after two years of negotiations with the BTRC. The 15-year contracts, priced at BDT11.6 billion (US$98.6 million), will help improve service quality. The BTRC agreed to payment in local currency to address exchange rate concerns.