Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Arabsat selects ACTIA to deploy Q/V-Band gateways for ARABSAT-7A, strengthening its shift to software-defined satellite architecture and enabling resilient, high-capacity broadband services across enterprise, mobility, aviation, maritime, and government sectors through advanced ground segment infrastructure and flexible routing capabilities across its regional footprint.
Ethio Telecom and Somaliland-based ISP Somcable are exploring a strategic cross-border partnership to expand regional digital connectivity. The talks focus on leveraging infrastructure, subsea cable assets, and shared expertise to accelerate growth, align with Ethio Telecom’s “Digital & Beyond 2028” strategy, and advance digital empowerment across East Africa.
Doha ranked first globally for mobile internet performance among tourist cities, achieving average speeds of 354.5 Mbps. The Holafly study measured real-world usability by download time, highlighting Qatar’s decade-long investment in 5G and digital infrastructure, transforming Doha into a connected, frictionless destination for travelers, business users, and remote workers.
Astranis has secured a nine-figure deal with Oman’s MB Group for a small GEO broadband satellite, part of a $200 million digital infrastructure push. The satellite will launch this summer alongside four others on a dedicated Falcon 9, supporting Oman’s economic diversification and expanding Astranis’ global footprint.
Qatar is advancing mission-critical connectivity through secure 5G, private networks, and satellite services, positioning digital infrastructure at the heart of national security. Vodafone Qatar’s DIMDEX showcase and Starlink partnership highlight how resilient connectivity is shaping defence, maritime, and public safety operations.
Kuwait is accelerating PPP-led infrastructure, with the Supreme Committee reviewing power, water, and digital projects. Approval is pending to award the national fiber network tender, a 50-year PPP delivering up to 10Gbps speeds and 90% home coverage, shifting network operations to the private sector.
Bangladesh’s internet penetration remains at 53 percent, with sharp gender and rural gaps limiting digital inclusion. An ADB report highlights stalled interoperability, weak digital identity coverage, and fragmented governance, while pointing to mobile finance, health platforms, and rural digital centres as foundations for leapfrogging toward 2030 goals.
Pakistan has spent over Rs52bn to extend telecom services to remote areas through the Universal Service Fund, but uneven coverage persists due to low commercial returns, security concerns, and infrastructure gaps. Officials told parliament that private operators drive expansion, and improved law and order is key to attracting investment and closing connectivity gaps.
Starlink is providing free satellite internet across Venezuela until 3 February after major connectivity outages in Caracas linked to power disruptions. The service aims to restore access in a country with a history of internet restrictions and infrastructure gaps, offering continuity during a period of widespread uncertainty.
Orange Côte d’Ivoire has launched Orange Sat, a satellite broadband service powered by Eutelsat to connect rural white zones. Offering both unlimited enterprise plans and low-cost prepaid passes, the initiative expands digital inclusion by bringing reliable internet to areas beyond 4G and fibre coverage.