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 UAE has launched a US$1 billion “AI for Development” initiative to support AI-driven growth across Africa. Managed by ADEX, the program will fund projects in key sectors like education, agriculture, and infrastructure to strengthen digital ecosystems and improve government services. The initiative aims to accelerate sustainable development, deepen UAE–Africa partnerships, and expand economic resilience across the continent.
Google is building four new subsea cable hubs in Africa to expand connectivity and support AI growth. Linked to the Equiano and Umoja cables, the hubs will be completed in three years, alongside investments in AI training, funding, and free AI Pro access for students across multiple African nations.
Egypt’s Minister of ICT, Amr Talaat, met with Keiichi Yoshimura of Tokyo’s Startup and International Financial City Strategy Office to discuss cooperation on digital innovation and AI. Talaat also explored investment opportunities in semiconductors and electronics with executives from Renesas Electronics, TDK, and Mitsubishi Electric during his visit to Japan.
China Mobile Communications Corporation (CMCC) visited Pakistan’s Ministry of IT, discussing digital cooperation under CPEC. Key topics included AI-enabled data centers, 5G development, regional connectivity, and collaboration with Chinese digital platforms. These efforts align with Pakistan’s Digital Vision, aiming for higher internet speeds, broadband access, and smartphone penetration.
Africa’s first global AI summit outlined a vision to generate $2.9 trillion by 2030, create half a million jobs annually, and uplift over 11 million people from poverty. Discussions focused on AI’s potential in health, education, and agriculture, while emphasizing infrastructure development and linguistic inclusion in AI systems.
Algeria aims for AI to contribute 7% of its GDP by 2027, with investments in AI, robotics, and cybersecurity startups. The government is enhancing digital infrastructure with 4G and fiber optic networks, aiming to boost economic productivity and position Algeria as a leader in AI and technological innovation.
Egypt has emerged as the top African country in fixed internet speed, driven by its digital transformation efforts. The country has also seen growth in digital service exports and outsourcing, alongside investments in AI and digital skills development. Egypt’s ongoing progress is positioning it as a digital leader in Africa.
Cisco has unveiled key initiatives to advance AI and cloud services in Saudi Arabia, including new data centers, AI talent development, and local manufacturing plans. These efforts align with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to strengthen digital infrastructure, foster innovation, and contribute to the kingdom’s economic growth.
Iran is set to establish its first AI park in Tehran by 2026, aiming to drive technological progress and provide key AI services. The country also plans to host an international AI conference to promote collaboration and innovation in the field.
Hicham Sifer, Chairman of the Committee on Legal and Administrative Affairs at the Algerian People’s National Assembly, highlighted Algeria’s commitment to digitization and AI development at IGF 2024. He discussed the country’s infrastructure investments and legislative efforts, including adapting laws to foster a digital economy and boost AI capabilities.