Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Nepal Telecom (NTC) is moving forward with plans to install a new Rs 5 billion convergent real-time billing system, aiming to streamline billing for all its services and improve customer care. The system will handle 34 million customers across various networks and services, enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Mobile number portability in Nigeria surged by 190% in January 2025, with 8,708 subscribers switching networks. 9mobile faced the highest losses, losing 6,716 customers, while MTN, Airtel, and Globacom benefited. This shift reflects dissatisfaction with service quality and pricing. The telecom sector saw overall growth in subscriptions.
TBH and Robi Axiata have partnered to introduce Web3-powered gamification to over 40 million users in Bangladesh. By integrating blockchain-driven rewards for content creation, data usage, and mobile interactions, the initiative aims to boost user engagement and drive new revenue streams for both companies.
Ooredoo shareholders approved a QR0.65 per share cash dividend after the company reported strong growth in 2024, with a 2% revenue increase and a 14% rise in net profit. Key developments include partnerships with NVIDIA, the launch of a new data center, and the acquisition of the ‘Fibre in Gulf’ subsea cable.
Robi Axiata posted a record profit of Tk 7.03 billion in 2024, a 119% increase year-on-year, despite a challenging market environment. Revenue grew by less than 1%, with voice and data revenue rising modestly. The company declared a 15% cash dividend, the highest since its market listing in 2020.
Beyond ONE has partnered with TIMWETECH to deliver premium digital content to mobile users in Saudi Arabia and Oman. This collaboration enables 3.5 million prepaid subscribers to access streaming, gaming, and infotainment services via Direct Carrier Billing, promoting digital inclusion without requiring credit cards, and enhancing the user experience.
Ncell has joined the Internet Service Providers Association of Nepal (ISPAN), marking the first time a telecom operator has become part of the group. The move aligns with Ncell’s interest in entering the ISP business. Alongside Ncell, CG Communication has also joined ISPAN, strengthening the association’s influence.
Orange has partnered with Eutelsat’s Konnect satellite to expand internet access in regions like Jordan, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The satellite offers up to 100 Mb/s speeds, aiming to improve connectivity in remote areas and supporting mobile backhaul and maritime applications across Africa.
Telecom Egypt has partnered with Ericsson to implement the Ericsson Mediation platform, aiming to enhance customer experiences, reduce operational costs, and boost digital engagement. This collaboration will enable Telecom Egypt to provide flexible communication choices, improve agility, and accelerate its digital transformation, supporting Egypt’s growing telecom market.
VEON and Huawei have partnered to deploy solar power across 1,000 Jazz sites in Pakistan. Using Huawei’s iSolar technology, the initiative will reduce energy costs by up to 96% and contribute to Jazz’s commitment to a net-zero carbon target by 2050. The project aims to offer a scalable model for future expansion.