Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
ADN Telecom has acquired a 37% stake in Senior Citizen Healthcare Limited, marking its entry into Bangladesh’s growing digital healthcare sector. The investment will help expand the elderly-focused healthcare services into rural areas, incorporating advanced technologies like AI-based health assessments, robotic rehabilitation, and telemedicine to improve accessibility and affordability.
Key Takeaways: Dhaka, Bangladesh – A recent survey conducted by the Bureau of Bangladesh Statistics (BBS) has revealed a significant shift…
At the 19th Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum, Policy Adviser Fayez Ahmed Tayeb emphasized the country’s lack of content delivery network (CDN) and deep packet inspection (DPI) servers, hindering internet sovereignty. The event highlighted the importance of server localization, internet rights, and the need for cybersecurity guidelines over laws.
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has revoked the licences of 41 A2P SMS aggregators for failing to renew certifications and continuing operations with expired licences. Affected companies have been instructed to surrender their licences and clear any dues within 30 days, while new applications for SMS aggregator licences are now invited.
Banglalink celebrated its 20th anniversary in Dhaka, highlighting its role in shaping Bangladesh’s digital future. The event focused on the company’s transformative impact and its commitment to leading the country into an AI-driven, digitally inclusive future, with a roadmap for continued innovation in telecommunications.
Veon is in talks with Starlink to expand satellite-powered cellular services to Bangladesh through its subsidiary, Banglalink. The partnership aims to provide connectivity in underserved areas where terrestrial networks fail, such as during floods or energy shortages. This expansion is part of Veon’s broader strategy to serve emerging markets.
The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) ordered the NTMC and BTRC to preserve data from the August mass-uprising period and instructed telecom operators to assist in the investigation. The tribunal also addressed a media report on a non-existent order regarding wealth statements, calling for an explanation from the reporter.
Bangladesh’s rollout of 5G faces obstacles such as infrastructure gaps, delays in spectrum allocation, and customer preparedness. Despite challenges, the country’s 5G adoption is expected to drive digital transformation, offering opportunities in sectors like telemedicine, e-commerce, and smart cities. Learning from India’s 5G success can help overcome these hurdles.
MCCI Dhaka has recommended integrating mobile financial services with Bangladesh’s National Payment Switch, establishing independent credit-scoring agencies, and launching digital banks to address financial inclusion gaps. These measures aim to boost the country’s digital financial services, enhance e-commerce growth, and improve access to loans for underserved groups.
Bangladesh has seen significant growth in internet and mobile access, with 50.4% of households now connected to the internet, up from 43.6% in 2023. The report also shows increases in smartphone usage, electricity consumption, and television access, highlighting the country’s growing digital connectivity and technology adoption.