Kenya is transforming digital connectivity in the Horn of Africa with a high-capacity fibre optic corridor on the Isiolo-Mandera route. Supported by World Bank funding, this initiative aims to enhance digital integration and connect underserved communities.
Qatar-based telecommunications company Ooredoo has announced its membership in the Nvidia Cloud Partner club, with plans to upgrade its AI data centers across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region using Nvidia’s Tensor Core GPUs. This move aligns with Ooredoo’s strategy to establish itself as the leading digital infrastructure provider in MENA.
In a landmark move, Zain Group, Ooredoo, and TASC Towers Holding have officially inked a definitive agreement to merge their tower assets, forming a colossal entity valued at $2.2 billion. This strategic collaboration, originating from talks initiated in July, consolidates a combined total of 30,000 towers spanning Qatar, Kuwait, Algeria, Tunisia, Iraq, and Jordan, establishing the largest tower company in the Middle East and North Africa.
Sparkle is revolutionizing VoIP and connectivity by expanding GÉANT networks in Europe, Africa, and MENA regions. By forging strategic alliances and bolstering network infrastructure, Sparkle ensures robust communication channels. This collaboration enhances VoIP services, offering unparalleled connectivity for researchers and institutions across these diverse regions, strengthening the global digital landscape.
Rakuten Symphony and Zain Kuwait are revolutionizing the telecom industry by introducing Kuwait’s first cloud-native Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) deployment. This pioneering project aims to enhance 5G Standalone sites, leveraging Rakuten Symphony’s advanced O-RAN and cloud products.
Microsoft’s €4.3 billion investment in Italy is set to revolutionize cloud and AI infrastructure. This ambitious initiative aims to elevate Italy’s digital landscape, offering VoIP solutions that enhance connectivity and communication. By focusing on digital skills, Microsoft intends to transform Italy into a leading hub for digital innovation in the Mediterranean region.
Ooredoo Group’s new QAR 2 billion financing deal highlights their innovative approach in the growing MENA market for data centers and AI. This partnership involving QNB, Doha Bank, and Masraf Al Rayan emphasizes Ooredoo’s commitment to developing cutting-edge infrastructure and advancing digital transformation.
Grid Telecom and Tamares Telecom have announced a strategic alliance to establish open-access cable landing infrastructure in Cyprus. This partnership aims to enhance regional digital infrastructure, promoting data-driven growth. Leveraging Cyprus as a carrier-neutral hub, it connects key destinations with state-of-the-art subsea cable landings, boosting digital connectivity in Europe and the Middle East.
Qatar-based telecommunications giant Ooredoo has announced a strategic partnership with Nokia aimed at capitalizing on the burgeoning private 5G network sector. The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), will see the two companies working together to develop bespoke 5G networks tailored for enterprise clients.
The GSMA’s recent State of Mobile Internet Connectivity Report reveals intriguing trends in global smartphone use. While a majority, about 57%, of the global populace now connects to the mobile internet, there’s a stark division in technology adoption. Most users in developed markets rely on 4G or even 5G-enabled devices, while developing regions substantially depend on older 3G and even 2G tech. Surprisingly, the pace of mobile internet user growth also appears to be decelerating. So, how can the world’s telecom industry respond to the challenges of this digital divide? An engrossing discussion waiting to happen at the upcoming Total Telecom Congress!

