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’s Universal Service Fund has approved Rs7.49 billion in projects to expand fiber broadband and 4G mobile coverage, targeting nearly 960,000 people in underserved areas. The initiatives include large-scale fiber deployments in Sanghar and Jhang districts and 4G rollouts in multiple districts, supporting digital inclusion, entrepreneurship, and economic development.
Oman’s telecom sector grew with a 5.8% rise in postpaid subscriptions and a 121% surge in IoT connections by April 2025. Mobile subscriptions increased 12.3%, broadband and fiber optic usage expanded, while legacy services like ADSL and satellite declined significantly.
Algeria Telecom has launched an online survey to identify areas lacking fibre connectivity ahead of its 2026 FTTH expansion. With over 2 million subscribers, fibre still covers only 27% of households. The survey will help prioritize network growth based on citizen feedback and regional needs.
Broadband access in Africa is expanding rapidly, improving connectivity and driving economic growth. Countries like Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mauritius lead in fixed broadband speeds, reflecting advancements in infrastructure and digital transformation. Strategic investments and policy reforms are essential to accelerate progress and bridge the digital divide across the continent.
Pakistan is preparing for a major spectrum auction to enhance mobile broadband capacity and support next-gen services. With mobile data consumption rising, the government plans to auction 567 MHz of spectrum. The auction aims to promote investment, improve network coverage, and ensure long-term telecom sector sustainability.
Sri Lanka’s Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRCSL) has dismissed rumors of suspending the Starlink satellite broadband service. Director General Bandula Herath confirmed the service will launch in April once the necessary regulatory systems are in place, ensuring proper service delivery and national security regulations.
Kacific and Paksat International have partnered to enhance broadband connectivity in Pakistan using the Paksat-MM1 satellite. This collaboration will provide affordable, high-speed internet, especially in remote regions, improving mobile backhaul, backup connectivity, and supporting businesses, government agencies, and ISPs, while boosting digital inclusion across the country.
The PTA is reviewing the Local Loop licensing regime to align with new technologies like VoIP and NFV. Proposals include allowing licensees to focus solely on broadband services, making the system technology-neutral, and improving efficiency. The aim is to foster competition, enhance service quality, and accelerate digital transformation.
Wispap has urged Pakistan’s telecom regulator to modernize the local loop licensing framework, advocating for a broadband-only licensing category and the adoption of technology-neutral approaches. The reforms are crucial for enhancing broadband expansion, fostering competition, and attracting investments, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Pakistan has declared 2025 as the “Year of 5G” and unveiled plans to increase broadband speeds to 50-100 Mbps and expand Fibre-To-The-Site (FTTS) coverage to 60%. The government aims to enhance telecom infrastructure with a 5G spectrum auction in 2025 and a nationwide fiber network expansion.