Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Sri Lanka is advancing its digital economy strategy while responding to Cyclone Ditwah by using GovPay to streamline disaster relief donations and launching a global support portal. Despite major damage to telecom infrastructure, satellite connectivity and coordinated recovery efforts have highlighted the resilience and importance of digital systems during crises.
Satellite and mobile connectivity played a critical role in recent emergency responses in Sri Lanka and along the Thai–Cambodia border. Eutelsat and Bharti Airtel supported flood relief through LEO satellite services, while Thailand’s True Corporation maintained communications, supported evacuees, and restored network services amid border tensions.
Telecom operators in Malaysia and Bangladesh are reinforcing emergency communications through partnerships with humanitarian agencies. CelcomDigi is supporting flood relief with connectivity, alerts, and on-the-ground aid, while Edotco Bangladesh is collaborating with the Red Crescent to strengthen disaster preparedness, early warnings, and network resilience in climate-vulnerable communities.
Ufone 4G has partnered with ConnectHear to enhance disaster response for Pakistan’s deaf communities, using AI to deliver life-saving information in sign language. The initiative ensures real-time updates during emergencies, bridging communication gaps in low-connectivity environments. This collaboration is backed by the GSMA Innovation Fund for Humanitarian Challenges.
Banglalink swiftly responded to catastrophic floods in Bangladesh, restoring network connectivity and aiding affected communities. Partnering with the Bangladesh Army, they distributed essential supplies to displaced individuals, demonstrating a strong commitment to disaster response and community support.