The 13th Bahrain National Robotics Competition, under the patronage of Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, concluded successfully, showcasing young talent in STEM. Organized by the Ministry of Education and Britus Education, the competition emphasized environmental sustainability through robotics, with significant participation from students across various educational levels.
In 2023, Bangladesh’s internet subscriber count rose to 131 million, including 7 million new users, with 118.49 million on mobile and 12.88 million on broadband. The total mobile subscribers also increased to 190.81 million, driven by 10.61 million new users last year, according to BTRC data.
US-based Iozera and the Moroccan government have unveiled plans for a pioneering 386MW data center and AI hub in Tetouan, Morocco. Named Eureka Park, the project emphasizes advanced AI computation and sustainability, utilizing renewable energy sources. Set to begin construction in 2024, it aims to operationalize by mid-2026.
Core42 and Gecko Robotics have partnered to integrate advanced robotics and AI-driven software into key sectors like energy and public infrastructure in the UAE. This strategic alliance aims to enhance efficiency, safety, and operational excellence across critical infrastructures, leveraging Gecko’s innovative technologies and Core42’s extensive industry insights.
Indonesia is set to launch SpaceX’s Starlink satellite broadband within two weeks, following approvals from Indonesian authorities. This initiative aims to enhance internet accessibility across remote areas and the new capital city, promising a significant boost in connectivity and digital inclusion for the geographically diverse nation.
Kazakhstan has completed an interface station for the OneWeb satellite network, aiming to start commercial services within the year. Additionally, the nation is developing a new satellite constellation for Earth observation. Meanwhile, over 170 villages now have satellite internet access, despite recent controversies in the digital ministry.
WideBot, an AI developer based in Cairo, has partnered with Libyan telecom Almadar Aljadid to introduce a multilingual AI chatbot, enhancing customer service. This strategic collaboration aims to improve customer interactions and support Almadar’s service expansion across Libya, demonstrating a significant advancement in the region’s telecom sector.
Zoom Video Communications has appointed Mohannad AlKalash as the managing director for the Middle East, Turkey, Africa, and Pakistan. AlKalash will lead Zoom’s expansion in the region, particularly aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. He brings extensive experience from Cisco and has founded the CyberxWorld platform.
Turk Telekom has expanded its fiber network to 437,000 km, covering 32.2 million households in Turkey. As the leading provider, it has also linked 52% of its LTE 4G base stations with fiber. Committed to 5G readiness, it offers innovative solutions through a new partnership with Schneider Electric.
In 2023, Saudi Arabia achieved a remarkable 99% internet penetration rate, indicating widespread digital access across the population. The “Internet Saudi Arabia” report reveals extensive daily usage, predominance of mobile access, and significant engagement in online shopping and government services, supported by strong infrastructure that places the nation among global leaders in internet speed.
