Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan inaugurated ITCN Asia 2025 in Karachi, with Federal Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja announcing 5G rollout in seven cities within months, a $5B IT export target, and one million youth to be trained. The event features 700+ exhibitors, 50,000 attendees, and global delegations from 25+ countries.
Loc8 has joined MTC and Telecom Namibia as the third operator licensed for 5G, with a Q1 2026 launch planned. The operator will focus on IoT-driven industries such as mining, supported by fibre routes and subsea cable access to ensure resilient, high-speed connectivity.
Pakistan’s Senate IT panel was told the PTCL–Telenor merger will conclude within two weeks. Lawmakers flagged transparency lapses in telecom boards, raised alarm over Rs65bn worth of citizen data on the dark web, and urged swift action on 5G rollout amid coverage gaps and cybersecurity concerns.
North Africa is rapidly embracing 5G, led by Tunisia’s pioneering launch and Egypt’s nationwide rollout in 2025. With Algeria and Morocco preparing deployments, the region is on track to accelerate digital transformation, attract investment, and drive socio-economic growth through innovation in smart cities, logistics, and digital services.
The launch of 5G across North Africa in 2025 marks a turning point in digital transformation. Tunisia and Egypt’s early rollouts showcased major speed gains, while Algeria and Morocco prepare for rapid adoption. With infrastructure partnerships and policy support, 5G is set to boost competitiveness, innovation, and economic growth in the region.
Iraq has announced the creation of a new state-backed mobile company to deliver 5G services nationwide. Backed by government entities and open to citizen investment, the initiative is designed to boost competition, enhance service quality, and support Iraq’s broader goal of diversifying its non-oil economy.
Iraq is set to launch Vodafone Iraq, a new state-backed operator introducing 5G services under a 20-year brand license with Vodafone. The operator will rely on Iraqi graduates trained by Vodafone, cover major cities in its first phase, and hold exclusive 5G rights for three years to accelerate adoption.
Pakistan is preparing for a nationwide 5G launch after doubling its internet spectrum, enhancing connectivity and digital inclusion with new infrastructure and AI training initiatives.
Orange Egypt’s 5G network rollout is set to revolutionize the country’s gaming and digital ecosystem by delivering superior speed and reliability, strengthening Egypt’s position as a rising technology hub in the region.
Morocco’s awarding of 5G licenses to its top telecom operators marks a major step in digital infrastructure development, supporting nationwide 5G coverage ahead of the 2030 World Cup.