Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
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.
MTN South Sudan has launched 4G+ coverage in Wun Kuel, bringing faster and more reliable internet to an underserved area in Warrap State. The expansion supports education, commerce, and digital inclusion, reinforcing MTN’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and extending high-quality connectivity nationwide.
Wateen Telecom has partnered with Nayatel to provide nationwide carrier-grade connectivity across Pakistan. The agreement delivers Layer-2 services over Wateen’s fibre backbone, offering 100Gbps+ capacity and resilient metro networks. The collaboration strengthens Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and enables Nayatel to deliver reliable, high-speed broadband at scale.
Oman’s mobile market has surged in global rankings as regulatory reform, competition, and heavy 5G investment doubled median speeds and expanded coverage to 91%. With 6,671 5G sites and strong subsea redundancy, the country now outperforms many Gulf peers in speed and network resilience.
Kenya is accelerating its digital economy through fiber expansion, public Wi-Fi, and youth programs in Kirinyaga County. Over 102km of fiber now links all sub-counties to government networks, while digital skills initiatives and the Ajira program are preparing thousands of young people for global online work.
Jordan’s internet usage reached 95.6% in 2024, surpassing Arab and global averages. Daily use stands at 94.8%, with 11 million users nationwide. Mobile and smartphone adoption continues to rise, while landlines decline. The survey highlights rapid digital transformation across households, devices, and connectivity platforms.
Vodafone Qatar will showcase mission-critical connectivity at DIMDEX 2026, featuring live demos of secure communications, tactical private 5G, satellite links, digital twins, and body-worn video. The solutions target defence and security environments, reinforcing Vodafone’s role in building resilient digital infrastructure aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Smart and Lynk successfully tested direct-to-device satellite connectivity in Catanduanes, enabling text messaging and light data access in remote areas. The trials highlight how LEO satellites can restore communications during disasters and extend coverage to unserved regions, supporting Smart’s plans for a commercial D2D launch in 2027.
CelcomDigi has deployed more than 100 4G and LTE sites across IOI Corporation’s palm oil estates in Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia, delivering high-speed connectivity and direct internet access. The rollout supports automation, mobile workforce tools, and IoT systems while also extending digital services to surrounding rural communities.