Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Qatar is investing $500 million in a new terrestrial fiber route linking Oman to Europe via Iraq and Turkey, aiming to bypass Red Sea risks and boost global network resilience. The project enhances Qatar’s role as a digital hub, supported by telecom mergers, expanding data centers, and renewable energy-driven infrastructure.
Nigeria’s approval to deploy 4,000 telecom towers marks a major step toward expanding rural connectivity. By targeting 23 million underserved citizens, the initiative aims to boost economic inclusion, strengthen security, and support agricultural transformation through improved digital infrastructure.
The TSS–EDOTCO partnership is a strategic move for Bangladesh’s telecom future. By localising repair and refurbishment of critical power components, the country can increase resilience, reduce import dependency, and strengthen its broader digital and industrial ecosystems.
PTA has proposed strict rollout obligations for Telecom Infrastructure Provider licensees, requiring minimum yearly deployment of fiber, towers, Earth Stations or landing stations. The plan targets inactive licensees and aims to drive nationwide infrastructure expansion, improve network resilience and increase accountability. Stakeholders can submit feedback before the rules are finalized.
Morocco is accelerating 5G deployment under its Digital Morocco 2030 strategy, aiming for 70% coverage by the end of the decade. The rollout includes long-term investment, terrain-specific engineering, and stronger network security measures. Once implemented, the country will benefit from faster, more reliable connectivity, enabling new digital services and economic opportunities.
Morocco plans to reach 70% 5G coverage by 2030, with 5G already active in 60 cities and data plans expanded at no extra cost. The country will also scale fiber access and mandate fiber-ready housing as part of its Digital Morocco 2030 strategy.
Paratus Group has launched “Paratus 500,” a unified network connecting 15 sub-Saharan African markets via fibre, satellite, and subsea routes. Covering 500 million people, the service integrates terrestrial and LEO networks to deliver scalable, high-quality connectivity across the region.
Morocco will launch 5G in November 2025 following final government approval, beginning in eight cities including AFCON hosts. Backed by MAD 2.1 billion in licenses and MAD 80 billion in projected investments, the rollout will strengthen Morocco’s digital competitiveness under its Morocco Digital 2030 strategy.
Bangladesh’s state-run submarine cable operator denied claims of bandwidth shortage, citing 7,200 Gbps of current capacity and plans to reach 30,000 Gbps by 2026. The statement comes as the country’s first private cable project faces delays, underscoring tensions between state control and market liberalization.
Zong has launched a nationwide initiative to localize global lithium battery safety standards, ensuring telecom network reliability through research, testing, and collaboration with local labs. The company aims to set an industry-wide benchmark for safety, sustainability, and energy efficiency in Pakistan’s telecom sector.