Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan is preparing to launch 5G and satellite internet, expand fiber networks, and introduce a national data exchange layer. These initiatives signal the country’s commitment to regional collaboration, digital inclusion, and economic modernization through smarter infrastructure and regulatory reforms.
Amazon will roll out its Project Kuiper satellite broadband service in Pakistan by 2026, deploying LEO satellites to deliver high-speed internet to remote areas. The initiative aligns with Pakistan’s Digital Nation vision and expands global participation in its growing telecom sector.
Starlink has requested permission to buy bandwidth from Bangladesh and use it as a regional Point of Presence to expand its satellite internet footprint across South Asia. The move could strengthen Bangladesh’s role in regional data connectivity and diversify its submarine cable-dependent internet infrastructure.
Starlink has officially launched its satellite internet service in Jordan, joining Oman, Qatar, and Yemen in the company’s Middle East footprint. The expansion marks a major step in regional connectivity, as Starlink’s low-Earth orbit network continues to redefine internet access across remote and underserved markets.
Airtel Africa has successfully tested satellite internet on a moving train, delivering speeds up to 100 Mbps across 669 km of remote terrain. Powered by Eutelsat’s OneWeb LEO network, the trial paves the way for railway digitization, real-time operations, and high-speed connectivity across Africa.
Kyrgyzstan has launched a pilot project to test non-geostationary satellite systems, advancing its digital agenda and expanding high-speed internet access nationwide. The initiative, signed into law by President Sadyr Japarov, aims to close the digital divide and enable innovative telecom technologies.
Amazon’s Project Kuiper has partnered with Kazakhtelecom to roll out satellite internet across Kazakhstan, its first Central Asia partnership. Backed by Samruk-Kazyna, the project builds on Kuiper’s 100+ launched satellites and faces competition from China’s SpaceSail and SpaceX’s Starlink, both moving to expand in Kazakhstan’s broadband market.
Pakistan has issued a draft license framework for satellite internet services, reducing barriers for global providers like Starlink. The single-license model cuts costs, mandates local data compliance, and ensures rapid rollout. The move is expected to boost connectivity in underserved regions and advance Pakistan’s digital sovereignty.
Lebanon has granted a licence to Elon Musk’s Starlink to provide satellite internet services through a newly formed local entity. Initially limited to companies with packages from $100 per month, the move breaks state monopoly over internet services and aims to boost connectivity in one of the region’s slowest markets.
Starlink has launched its corporate internet service in Bangladesh, with Eastern Bank and 20 other firms signing up. The world’s largest Starlink ground station in Gazipur will power the service, while Robi becomes the first reseller. High costs could restrict uptake, but the service promises to transform rural connectivity.