Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The Taliban reports rising mobile internet usage and expanded coverage, but recent network shutdowns and high connectivity costs undermine progress as Afghanistan remains one of the least-developed telecom markets worldwide.
MTN has officially exited Afghanistan, transferring its stake to M1 Group, which will now operate the company under the brand name ATOMA. The handover ceremony marked the completion of MTN’s strategic shift to focus on African markets, with ATOMA pledging to improve network services and user experience in Afghanistan.
MTN has officially transferred its Afghanistan operations to M1 New Ventures, a Lebanon-based investment firm, which will now operate under the brand ATOMA. The transition, completed under the Taliban’s regulatory framework, includes an auction for 48 megahertz of spectrum, generating around $100 million in leasing agreements.
Mawlawi Najibullah Hayat Haqqani, Acting Minister of Communications and Information Technology in Afghanistan, met with MTN Afghanistan officials to discuss the company’s operations, including SIM card registration and service quality. Minister Haqqani emphasized the need for regulatory compliance and continued sector support. MTN committed to improving services and investing in network development.