GET TO KNOW increase of 51 %. By 2029 , 5G is expected to dominate the market , capturing 50 % of total subscriptions .
In response to this dynamic growth , customers in the Middle East and Africa are increasingly demanding reliable , high-speed connectivity . This surge in demand reveals key pain points , including the need for seamless 5G integration , access to Fixed Wireless Access in areas with limited fibre infrastructure , and the challenge of keeping pace with rapid technological advancements . As the region ’ s telecom sector evolves , customers expect solutions that not only meet current demands but also anticipate future needs .
Which generic technologies and innovations can make a difference to your end customers business ?
The deployment of 5G technology is a critical enabler for businesses in the region , driving sustainability and operational efficiency across industries . With its energy-efficient design , 5G networks optimise infrastructure , reduce operational costs , and lower carbon emissions for telecom operators .
Ericsson ’ s Partner Programme , emphasizes simplicity , protection , profitability , differentiation , while allowing partners to scale operations .
Beyond 5G , a combination of disruptive technologies such as AI , IoT , extended reality , XR , and robotics holds immense potential to reshape industries . These technologies enable more efficient operations , smart infrastructure management , and the integration of renewable energy sources , contributing to a more sustainable future . Ericsson fintech solutions as well drive innovation and expand financial inclusion by making advanced financial services accessible to everyone . ensure faster deployment and superior service quality , and secure a dominant position in the regional market .
Which non-competitive business in the region do you admire for innovative usage of technology ?
In my view , I have always been fascinated by the invention of mobile financial services which has become one of the region ’ s most remarkable innovations , driving both digital and financial inclusion while contributing significantly to economic development . This journey began in 2010 , with a discussion between our former CEO and the former CEO of MTN , focused on enhancing financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa .
It started with a simple proof of concept for peerto-peer transactions , followed by basic use cases like airtime top-ups and vouchers for consumer transactions . Initially launched in Rwanda and Uganda , the service quickly expanded to 15 other African markets and eventually reached regions such as Saudi Arabia and the whole GCC .
Which aspects of your job role do you find rewarding and which challenging ?
I find it incredibly energising and fun to collaborate with such talented individuals across the Middle East and Africa region . As someone who tends to always see the glass as half full , I believe that while challenges are inevitable , we together can turn them into opportunities , sometimes to drive the business forward and sometimes to learn and grow together .
How do you best like to de-stress and re-charge off work ?
My best way is to spend time with family and friends . Before moving to Riyadh , I enjoyed gardening and now I will have to put those skills to test and wish for the best ! p
How can a channel partner in your industry disrupt the regional market and gain a leading competitive position ?
It is by adopting a strategy focused on early adoption of 5G technologies , combined with deep local market expertise . Ericsson ’ s Partner Programme , emphasizes simplicity , protection , profitability , and differentiation , while allowing partners to rapidly scale operations ,
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