In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and telecommunications, the SAMENA Accelerator took center stage during the UBBF 2023 event to emphasize the significance of 10-gigabit networks in the Middle East and Central Asia. This crucial discussion, conducted in collaboration with Huawei Technologies, showcased the transition from policy to action within the telecommunications sector. The event was organized by the SAMENA Telecommunications Council, and TECHx Media had the privilege of being in attendance.
The leadership panel, aptly named “From Policy to Action,” served as a pivotal platform for industry leaders and experts to delve into the realm of 10 Giga Digital Infrastructure, a concept aimed at accelerating a robust and sustainable digital economy in the region. The panel was moderated by Erik Almqvist, Founder & CEO of Sense Strategy, and it brought together influential figures in the field to discuss the acceleration of 10-gigabit network development, focusing on the Middle East and Central Asia.
The distinguished panelists included Cevat Yerli, CEO of TMRW Foundation; Alex Lee, MD UAE, China Mobile International; Mohammed Bin Ali, acting director of the Telecommunications Directorate, Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunication in Bahrain; and Lin Yanqing, principal consultant of Industry Policy Public & Government Affairs at Huawei Technologies. Their insights and expertise shed light on various aspects of this transformative endeavor.
Lin Yanqing of Huawei Technologies unveiled the concept of 5.5G, an evolution of the existing 5G ecosystem. This innovative technology promises network upgrades that are ten times faster, enabling a seamless 10 Gbps experience, accommodating up to 100 billion connections, and introducing native intelligence for a wide range of services. He expressed Huawei’s commitment to the “Gigabit Society” concept, which harnesses technology to provide ubiquitous connectivity and fuel growth and innovation across various industries in the Middle East and Central Asia.
Furthermore, the CEO of SAMENA Telecommunications Council underscored the importance of unlocking capital to support 5G-Advanced and addressing connectivity gaps in underserved areas. The organization’s mission goes beyond providing simple internet access; it aspires to create an intelligent world characterized by enhanced connectivity and digital infrastructure, including mobile, fixed-line, and cloud solutions. This vision aligns with the growing demand for digital space and security to support the ever-expanding network of connections worldwide.
When asked about the internet technologies that would benefit most from 10 Gigabit networks, Cevat Yerli, CEO of TMRW Foundation, emphasized that all internet technologies work collaboratively to create a faster world. Whether it’s the Metaverse, AI, or other advancements, they all rely on the shift towards IPv6 transition and “10Giga” networks. AI, in particular, plays a pivotal role as a virtual assistant, offering numerous benefits to society, including lower costs and increased productivity in vital areas like education and healthcare. The result is the humanization of technology and the creation of more lifelike experiences.
The SAMENA ACCELERATOR event served as a testament to the critical role of fixed networks, the foundation of ICT and digital transformation visions. Regional markets are gearing up for 10Giga technology, ushering in advancements in computing and cloudification. As network options proliferate and innovations in Fiber emerge, the adoption of IPv6 becomes imperative, although it currently remains unbalanced in the region. Speakers emphasized the need to prevent a new digital divide resulting from varying network quality and experiences. The SAMENA ACCELERATOR also called for agile regulation and urged regional markets to work together to usher in a “10Giga Society.”
In conclusion, the SAMENA Accelerator at UBBF 2023 illuminated the transformative power of 10-gigabit networks and their central role in shaping the digital future of the Middle East and Central Asia. With visionary leaders, innovative technology, and collaborative efforts, the region is poised for a brighter, more connected future.
