Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Banglalink achieved a decade-high revenue growth of 14.4% in 2023, driven by a 25% increase in data revenue. The company’s expansion strategy, including a 24.5% growth in its 4G user base and the success of digital services like the MyBL Super App, fueled this significant performance boost.
ATRA has initiated a $1.6 million project to construct 16 telecommunications centers in Faryab Province, Afghanistan. This initiative aims to improve communication services in 13 districts, addressing long-standing issues in remote areas. The project reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and connectivity, significantly benefiting local communities.
At the Digital Nation Summit in Islamabad, telecom leaders discussed the critical role of smartphones in bridging Pakistan’s digital divide. Jazz CEO Aamir Ibrahim emphasized the need for affordable smart devices and policy reforms. The summit also highlighted sustainability efforts and the telecom sector’s importance in driving economic growth and digital inclusion.
Afghanistan’s IT Minister, Maulvi Najibullah Hayat Haqqani, met with Paktika Province tribal leaders to discuss communication issues. He announced plans to build 25 new communication sites across the province, aiming to improve connectivity and address local challenges. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing communication infrastructure in the region.
Google for Startups has launched the AI Academy to support and accelerate AI startups in Pakistan and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The program offers tailored mentorship from AI experts, up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, and opportunities for cross-border collaboration, aiming to strengthen the AI ecosystem in APAC.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), and GSMA held a workshop titled “Bridging the Mobile Gender Gap” to address the digital gender divide in Pakistan. The event focused on enhancing women’s access to mobile technology and digital services through inclusive policies and global expertise.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and APNIC held cybersecurity workshops in Lahore and Islamabad, focusing on “Incident Response and CERT.” Led by Adli Wahid from APNIC, the sessions included theoretical and practical training. The event concluded with a certificate ceremony, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing Pakistan’s cybersecurity capabilities.
IBI and Pakistan’s Ministry of IT and Telecommunications have established a strategic cooperation to enhance Pakistan’s industrial and digital landscape. The agreement, involving IBI’s subsidiary Toodudu, aims to leverage digital economy and cross-border industrial strengths, promoting economic collaboration and development between China and Pakistan.
Eight Pakistani IT students will compete in the regional finals of Huawei’s Seeds for the Future 2024 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The program, part of Huawei’s global CSR initiative, aims to foster innovation and develop IT talent. Participants will receive training in digital skills, cross-cultural exchanges, and hands-on experience with advanced technologies.
She Loves Tech launched its Islamabad round, co-hosted by Telenor Velocity and organized by CIRCLE Women Association. Held at Telenor Pakistan’s Campus ‘345’, the event featured ten women-led tech startups competing for a spot in the National Finale, offering mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities.