Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Grameenphone, a subsidiary of Telenor, aims to connect 50 million internet users in Bangladesh within five years. The company recently surpassed 50 million subscribers and plans significant annual investments to upgrade its network. Celebratory offers include doubling internet speeds for 3G users. Grameenphone’s network covers 99% of the population.
Dialog Axiata has acquired 100% control of Bharti Airtel Lanka via a share swap, reducing Axiata Group’s stake to 73.75% and giving Bharti Airtel 10.355%. The merger aims to improve efficiencies, cut costs, and enhance customer experience, adding 5 million subscribers to Dialog’s existing 18 million.
MSMEDA and Telecom Egypt have signed an MoU to support entrepreneurs and startups by offering special mobile and internet packages, integrating them into the formal sector, and enhancing their competitiveness. This collaboration aims to boost digital transformation, productivity, and local and global competitiveness.
Morocco is witnessing a significant surge in mobile and internet usage, with mobile phone subscriptions exceeding 55.4 million in Q1 2024 and an internet penetration rate of 103.5%. This growth reflects the country’s ongoing digital transformation, driven by improved telecommunications infrastructure and increasing affordability.
AWCC has launched its first 4G internet services in Kabul, with plans for nationwide expansion. This high-speed, cost-effective service enhances economic and infrastructural development, offering faster and more reliable internet for various devices.
Nepal Telecom has expanded 4G services to Machhapuchhre and Annapurna Base Camps, benefiting tourists and locals. Deurali has also been upgraded to 4G, marking the first time 4G is available at such high altitudes, enhancing connectivity in these popular trekking destinations.
Türkiye’s indigenous telecommunications satellite, Turksat 6A, will launch next month via a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Expanding coverage to India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, the satellite will increase Türkiye’s reach from 3.5 billion to over 5 billion people, covering more than 65% of the world’s population.
Libya’s Telecommunications Holding Company and Italian Post have agreed to enhance Libyan postal services, focusing on postal, logistical, and digital financial services, and training personnel. An executive cooperation agreement will establish joint working teams for initiatives and projects.
Yahsat awarded a $1.1 billion contract to Airbus to build geostationary satellites Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5, launching in 2027 and 2028. These satellites will enhance UAE’s satellite communications and support digital transformation. Airbus will design, manufacture, and provide ground control components.
Telecommunications subscriptions in the UAE rose to 27.09 million by March’s end, with mobile subscriptions at 78.1%, active mobile users at 21.15 million, and broadband internet and fixed-line services also seeing significant growth.