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 DRC is advancing a $400 million satellite project with Monacosat to expand nationwide internet access, targeting rural areas and boosting digital services. With internet penetration below 25%, the initiative aims to close the connectivity gap and diversify the economy beyond mineral dependence.
Rakuten Mobile and AST SpaceMobile have successfully completed the first-ever broadband video call between unmodified smartphones in Japan using a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite. This achievement paves the way for expanded mobile coverage in remote and disaster-affected areas, with plans for broader satellite-to-mobile broadband services in Japan by late 2026.
Al Munther, Bahrain’s first national satellite, has successfully entered its operational phase. Launched on March 15 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the satellite’s core systems are functioning as expected. Testing continues on critical systems, including communication and orientation, paving the way for its scientific and technical missions.
Pakistan is enhancing its digital infrastructure with 26.5 Tbps of international connectivity through five submarine cable projects. Additionally, proposals are underway to expand satellite-based internet services, and the government is working on improving network security to optimize internet performance and reduce slowdowns caused by VPNs and DDoS attacks.
Space42 has successfully launched the Thuraya 4 satellite, marking a key milestone in enhancing its mobile satellite services. The satellite, launched with SpaceX’s Falcon 9, expands coverage across the MENA region, boosting secure connectivity and satellite solutions for defense, government, and enterprise sectors, aligning with the UAE’s Space Strategy 2030.
Veon is in talks with Starlink to expand satellite-powered cellular services to Bangladesh through its subsidiary, Banglalink. The partnership aims to provide connectivity in underserved areas where terrestrial networks fail, such as during floods or energy shortages. This expansion is part of Veon’s broader strategy to serve emerging markets.
Morocco’s Panafsat and Thales Alenia Space have signed an MoU to develop a satellite communications system to provide high-speed internet services to 26 African countries, helping bridge the digital divide and support economic growth. This initiative is part of broader digitalization efforts in Morocco and Africa.
Abu Dhabi’s Marlan Space has partnered with Loft Orbital to launch Orbitworks, the Middle East’s first private space infrastructure company. Orbitworks will produce LEO satellite constellations, with plans to launch the first platform by 2026, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s space industry.
The Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) is launching a joint-stock company for satellite component manufacturing and a marketing company to promote its products. Additionally, EgSA will introduce an online platform for purchasing satellite images, furthering Egypt’s influence in the global space sector and advancing its space technology industry.
STARLINK and other LEO satellite operators are interested in launching services in Pakistan but have not yet met the required licensing conditions. While STARLINK has applied for an LDI license, the approval process is ongoing, with regulatory concerns being addressed under the new National Space Policy.