Sizable infrastructure investments are shaping the EMEA region’s digital future. From West Africa’s fiber optic expansion to Kuwait’s subsea connectivity, Bahrain’s cloud ambitions, Morocco’s tech summit, and Ghana’s AI push, countries are moving quickly to boost regional data capacity and attract international tech investment. The result? A vibrant and interconnected digital ecosystem ready for global competitiveness.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Nigeria: 90,000 km of Fiber to Drive Digital Transformation
Nigeria has secured $2 billion in funding to expand its fiber optic network by 90,000 kilometers. The National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN), launched at GITEX Africa 2024, is behind the initiative. It aims to deliver 100% fiber optic backbone infrastructure coverage by 2027. Backed by public and private stakeholders, this rollout targets rural access gaps and drastically improves digital connectivity across the country.
Minister of Communications Bosun Tijani emphasized the plan’s scope, stating, “This effort will catalyze economic growth and provide opportunities for millions of Nigerians.” The fiber expansion will support cloud adoption, data center growth, and AI services. The funding aligns with Nigeria’s ambition to lead Africa’s digital economy.
Kuwait: Ooredoo Lands the First FIG Cable
Ooredoo Group has completed the first Fibre in the Gulf (FIG) cable landing in Kuwait. The cable offers up to 480 Tbps capacity and connects the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to global markets. With support from Kuwait’s telecom regulator, CITRA, the landing positions Kuwait as a regional data hub. Ooredoo plans to develop cloud infrastructure and digital services further to meet growing demand.
The cable, developed with Alcatel Submarine Networks, will be completed by 2027 and will feature 24 fiber pairs capable of handling 720 Tbps. Sheikh Nasser Al Thani, Ooredoo Regional CEO, said, “We are investing to future-proof regional infrastructure for AI, cloud, and big data.”
Bahrain: Digital Ambitions with AWS and New Data Laws
Bahrain is accelerating its cloud and cybersecurity initiatives. The government is working with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to expand cloud regions and has passed new data protection regulations. The country is focusing on AI adoption, smart governance, and regional tech leadership.
Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications Mohamed Al-Qaed highlighted Bahrain’s role, noting, “We aim to be a digital economy leader in the Gulf.” The partnership with AWS includes infrastructure investment and workforce development, strengthening Bahrain’s position as a tech hub.
Türksat and Eutelsat: High-Speed In-Flight Internet for Europe
Türksat has partnered with Eutelsat Group to deliver high-speed in-flight broadband across Europe using the KONNECT VHTS satellite. The satellite, launched in October 2023, provides 500 Gbps of Ka-band capacity and features the most potent digital processor in orbit.
Eva Berneke, CEO of Eutelsat, said the partnership sets a new standard for in-flight internet, while Ahmet Hamdi Atalay, Türksat CEO, added that it strengthens Europe’s connectivity infrastructure. The deal allows flexible capacity allocation to meet airline and passenger demands.
Ghana and UNESCO: AI for Inclusive Innovation
Ghana and UNESCO have signed a deal to advance AI governance, education, and research. The partnership will establish AI policy frameworks and support training programs for students and professionals. Ghana aims to lead ethical AI development in Africa.
Ghana’s Minister of Communications, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, stated, “This initiative will enable Ghana to harness AI for sustainable development.” The plan includes regional collaboration and positions Ghana as a hub for responsible AI innovation.
GITEX Africa 2025: Africa’s Largest Tech Event Returns
GITEX Africa 2025 will return to Marrakech from April 14-16, 2025. The event will attract over 45,000 attendees from 130 countries and focus on fintech, AI, connectivity, and digital inclusion. TechAfrica News will again serve as a media partner.
Akim Benamara, Chief Editor of TechAfrica News, said, “GITEX Africa sets the agenda for Africa’s digital growth.” The summit aims to drive investment, innovation, and regional partnerships to accelerate Africa’s digital economy, which is projected to reach $180 billion by 2025.
TF Summary: What’s Next
EMEA’s infrastructure boom reflects a shared commitment to digital transformation. From fiber expansions to satellite internet and AI policy leadership, these initiatives will unlock economic growth and global tech leadership. Regional collaboration and investment will be key to sustaining momentum as these projects scale.
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