Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Ncell has received an “A” rating from ICRA Nepal for a Rs 22.60 billion loan, reflecting the company’s strong financial health despite revenue declines. The rating highlights Ncell’s steady profitability, strong management, and effective cost control strategies. The telco maintains a dominant market share in data services.
Power International Holding has acquired a 100% stake in Mobile Telecom-Service (MTS) from Kazakhtelecom, enhancing its position in Kazakhstan’s growing telecom sector. The acquisition includes prominent brands Altel and Tele2, reinforcing MTS’s role in providing 5G connectivity and digital services in the country.
HUTCH Sri Lanka has partnered with Snowflake’s AI Data Cloud to modernize its operations, improve customer service, and explore data monetization. The integration has led to a 60% reduction in data processing times and a 30% reduction in operational expenses, while enabling enhanced analytics and customer experience capabilities.
A report from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) reveals that 42% of telecom sites across Pakistan operate without generators, causing widespread power outages and internet slowdowns. The report also highlights the theft of critical equipment and attacks on telecom sites, further disrupting services during power loadshedding and increasing internet issues.
Pakistan is preparing for its 5G spectrum auction in April 2025, aiming to revolutionize sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing. The government is addressing challenges such as infrastructure gaps, spectrum pricing, and regulatory hurdles to ensure the successful deployment of 5G technology, which promises significant economic growth.
Zong has been ordered by the Islamabad High Court to refund Rs2 billion to affected customers after the company failed to comply with a PTA directive. The case involves illegal service fees charged on prepaid mobile cards, marking a significant step towards greater consumer protection in Pakistan’s telecom sector.
Pakistan’s telecom sector faces challenges in its 5G rollout due to a decline in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and sector investments. FDI fell to $46 million in 2023-24, and investments dropped to $765 million, hindering the necessary infrastructure upgrades. The PTA emphasizes the need for government incentives and PPPs to boost investor confidence.
Egypt’s four telecommunication companies have agreed to new quality penalty mechanisms that hold operators accountable for meeting service standards. Financial penalties will be reinvested into network improvements, particularly in underserved areas, to enhance nationwide mobile service quality and boost Egypt’s standing in international telecom rankings.
Jazz has partnered with Engro Connect to enhance Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure and accelerate digital transformation. The agreement will integrate Jazz’s assets with Engro Connect, enabling the company to expand into fintech, cloud services, and more. This collaboration aims to empower communities and improve connectivity across the country.
Orange Egypt has launched its eSIM service, allowing customers to switch from traditional SIM cards to a digital eSIM. The service, available through the “My Orange” app or at branches, lets users activate multiple lines. A seamless activation process and verification ensure convenience and data accuracy for users.