Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan’s 3G/4G user base continues to grow, with mobile penetration hitting 58.31% in March 2025. The telecom sector shows promising growth, with Jazz, Zong, Telenor, and Ufone all reporting increases in 4G subscribers. This shift reflects ongoing digital adoption, enhancing mobile connectivity and internet access nationwide.
Morocco has signed MoUs with Nokia and Ericsson to accelerate its Digital Morocco 2030 plan. Both companies will focus on digital talent development, 5G deployment, and expanding fiber optic networks. The partnerships aim to foster innovation, support entrepreneurs, and improve the country’s digital infrastructure in preparation for global events.
AWASR and NOOL Delivery have formed a strategic partnership to expand AWASR’s broadband services across Oman. Customers can now access AWASR’s products at NOOL offices, ensuring more convenient service delivery. This partnership aims to enhance customer experience and extend AWASR’s reach using NOOL’s robust delivery network.
The Middle East’s telecommunications market is forecast to experience moderate growth from 2024 to 2035, with a 0.9% CAGR for market volume and 1.8% CAGR for market value. Iran, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia lead consumption, while Israel dominates exports. The region’s market is set to reach $2.4 billion by 2035.
Algeria’s government has approved the deployment of 5G technology, ordering detailed studies to ensure a comprehensive and effective rollout. The project aims to boost the economy, enhance digital infrastructure, and improve public services. With strategic applications in key sectors, 5G is seen as a driver for national growth and innovation.
Türk Telekom International has integrated BroadForward’s advanced signaling solution to support 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, with a forward-looking focus on 5G. The adoption of the converged signaling platform improves network flexibility, efficiency, and operational management, preparing TTI for future technological advancements.
Pakistan is preparing for a major spectrum auction to enhance its telecommunications infrastructure. The auction will release 567 MHz of spectrum to improve mobile broadband services, support 4G and 5G rollout, and boost the telecom sector’s growth. PTA and NERA are guiding the process, which aims to attract investment and drive economic development.
The Asia-Pacific telecommunications instruments market is expected to grow steadily, reaching 4.9 million units and $12.3 billion by 2035. Despite a decline in consumption and market value in 2024, key countries like China, India, and Japan continue to lead the market in both production and consumption, with long-term growth projections.
The Ugandan government has partnered with Rowad Capital Commercial (RCC) to revitalise Uganda Telecommunications Corporation (UTel). RCC will take a 60% stake in UTel, with the government retaining 40%. This partnership aims to commercialise Uganda’s ICT National Backbone Infrastructure, attracting private sector clients and increasing revenue.
Airtel and IHS Towers have announced a partnership to install 152 new communication towers in Zambia, with a US$14 million investment. This project will enhance network quality and increase coverage, aiming for 93% coverage by next year and 95-96% within two years.