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 conclusion of WTDC-25 saw ITU member states adopt the Baku Action Plan, a 2026–2029 roadmap for inclusive global connectivity. Despite 6 billion people now online, the new Global Connectivity Report highlights deep regional and gender divides, ongoing affordability barriers, and rising environmental and digital-wellbeing concerns that continue to slow global progress.
Saudi Arabia’s CST presented a global study at GSR25 showing that $2.6–2.8 trillion in investment is needed to bridge the digital divide by 2030. The initiative, part of the Connecting Humanity project with ITU, highlights the Kingdom’s leadership in digital inclusion and sustainable development.
Despite government projects, Pakistan still faces major internet access challenges due to slow spectrum use and legal issues, prompting lawmakers to demand accelerated action and better regulatory enforcement.
Africa has the lowest internet usage rate globally, with only 38% of the population online in 2024, far below the global average. High costs, limited digital skills, and poor infrastructure, especially in rural areas, hinder access. The ITU urges stronger policies and investment to address digital inequalities and improve connectivity.
At the World Economic Forum, experts discussed the “AI divide” in developing countries, emphasizing challenges such as limited energy, computing power, and talent. Deemah Al-Yahya stressed the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to bridge the gap, while promoting access to emerging technologies through digital assets.
Over 1.6 million Moroccans cannot afford basic internet access, with the country ranking 105th globally in internet affordability. The report highlights significant regional disparities in access, showing that both men and women are equally affected. Morocco’s average monthly internet cost is $4.4, far below the US benchmark.
Over 1.6 million Moroccans are unable to afford basic internet services, according to the latest Internet Poverty Index. The report highlights significant disparities in internet affordability, with Morocco ranking 105th globally. The findings emphasize the ongoing challenges in achieving digital inclusion, especially in underserved regions.
Bangladesh ranks behind nine out of 12 lower-middle-income countries in smartphone ownership and mobile internet usage, according to the GSMA’s “The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2024” report. Challenges such as digital literacy, safety concerns, and affordability limit mobile internet access, despite growing awareness.
CASS hosted a webinar on bridging the global digital divide, featuring experts discussing AI adoption, digital literacy, and tech ecosystems. Speakers highlighted the need for global cooperation, technology transfer, and local innovation. The event emphasized the importance of education, workforce reskilling, and public-private partnerships to enhance digital inclusion in Pakistan.
At the UNGA79 Summit of the Future, DCO Secretary-General Deemah AlYahya emphasized the urgent need to address the global digital divide, highlighting disparities in AI capabilities, gender, and skills. She introduced the Digital Economy Navigator (DEN) to evaluate digital performance across 50 countries.