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 ITU has raised over $82 billion through its Partner2Connect initiative to bridge the digital divide in Nigeria and globally. The funds will enhance internet access, infrastructure, and digital literacy, ensuring equitable opportunities for communities worldwide.
The International Telecommunication Union announced it has raised over $82 billion through its Partner2Connect (P2C) Digital Coalition to expand internet access in Nigeria and other regions. Doreen Bogdan-Martin highlighted that 2.2 billion people remain offline and the initiative aims to reach a $100 billion target by the end of 2026. Key contributions include Mobily pledging $1.715 billion for 5G, data centers, and submarine cables, and Ooredoo Group committing $500 million for fibre infrastructure to enhance global connectivity and digital inclusion.
Saudi Arabia ranked second globally in the ITU Digital Regulatory Maturity Index 2025, retaining “Leading” status among 193 countries. The achievement reflects strong leadership support, inclusive digital policies, cross-sector collaboration, and regulatory frameworks that drive innovation, investment, and digital economy growth.
Bahrain participated in ITU’s WTDC-25 in Baku, showcasing achievements in digital transformation and regulatory modernisation. The TRA reaffirmed support for global digital inclusion, contributed to sector policy discussions, and backed Adel Darwish’s candidacy for ITU Deputy Secretary-General.
Bahrain’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority participated in ITU’s WTDC-25 in Baku, contributing to policy discussions on ICT development and digital inclusion. The delegation highlighted Bahrain’s digital transformation progress, supported Adel Darwish’s ITU leadership candidacy, and reaffirmed commitment to global, inclusive digital growth.
Iran’s participation in WTDC-25 supports its goal of expanding international cooperation in telecom and digital innovation. The conference provides a platform to shape global ICT policy while advancing collaboration in cybersecurity, AI, IoT, and digital development across the region.
Saudi Arabia opened GSR-25 with ITU, uniting 190 nations to address the digital divide. A joint study calls for $2.8 trillion in investment, while Saudi initiatives focus on skills, regulation, and AI-era solutions to achieve universal connectivity.
Bahrain supports Adel Darwish’s bid for ITU Deputy Secretary General, reflecting confidence in national expertise to drive global digital transformation and inclusive technology development.
Algeria climbed 15 ranks to 74th place in the ITU’s 2025 ICT Development Index, exceeding global, regional, and income group averages. This progress underscores Algeria’s commitment to expanding universal and meaningful internet connectivity nationwide, supporting broader digital inclusion in line with presidential vision.
Oman ranks 18th globally in ITU’s 2024 ICT Regulatory Tracker, leading GCC and Arab nations through strengthened regulation, legal clarity, and competitive digital policies aligned with Vision 2040.