Encompassing the telecom vertical
The SAMENA Telecommunications Council Leaders’ Summit 2025 took centre stage in Dubai on May 26, bringing together influential policymakers, regulators, and ICT industry leaders from across South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa (SAMENA) region, as well as the global digital ecosystem.
This year’s Summit was built around the pivotal theme of “Intelligent & Sustainable Transformation of Digital Economies,” highlighting the urgent need to align government agendas with the innovative drive of the private sector. The one-day event helped foster stronger partnerships among telecom operators, technology vendors, and public institutions.
With AI, 5G-Advanced, and smart infrastructure at the forefront, the Summit underscored a shared commitment to building inclusive and sustainable digital economies that can meet the demands of future generations. The 2025 edition arrived at a pivotal moment for the region, where cooperation and unified strategies are crucial to addressing the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Headquartered in Dubai, the SAMENA Telecommunications Council serves as a development partner to regional governments, regulators, and industry stakeholders, co-creating a thriving and sustainable ICT ecosystem. It supports long-term growth, attracts investment, and expands value creation through innovative, collaborative approaches in digital services, data regulation, spectrum management, and industry fees and taxation.
Watch the video here:
A Q&A on the sidelines of the SAMENA Telecommunications Council Leaders’ Summit 2025, with Bocar A. BA, CEO of the SAMENA Telecommunications Council.
Excerpts from the Q&A session:
You opened the SAMENA Telecommunications Council Leaders’ Summit 2025 by highlighting the theme of “Intelligent and Sustainable Digital Transformation.” Why is intelligence such a crucial factor for networks in today’s world?
We are in the age of artificial intelligence. Previously, we spoke of building sustainable, resilient, and robust networks. Now, we must take a step further. These networks must evolve to become intelligent. We are integrating AI at the core of network infrastructure. This is not just about upgrading to 5G. We are transitioning to what we call 5.5G, a paradigm shift where AI enhances everything from network performance to service delivery.
However, digital transformation is not just about the technology. It also requires telecom companies to evolve into “Tecos”—technology companies. We need to address cybersecurity and the increasingly critical space segment. Satellite and terrestrial networks are converging. We must ensure affordability and reach those who are currently unconnected. This is not possible without strong multi-stakeholder cooperation, as governments, regulators, operators, and technology providers all play a crucial role.
What are the primary challenges facing telecom and digital transformation in the SAMENA region?
Cybersecurity is among the top challenges. As networks advance and interconnect more devices, cyber threats become more complex. We are in an era of 5.5G, which brings immense benefits but also sophisticated risks. Addressing this is not a national concern; it is a global issue. Collaboration is critical. Cybersecurity must be treated as a leadership issue, not just a technical one. It is about behaviour and education.
We need harmonisation and standardisation across devices, especially as IoT adoption grows. Interoperability is essential. Many of the threats originate not in core networks, which are usually very secure, but at the edge. That is where vulnerabilities lie.
Investment is another major issue. Operators are investing heavily in core infrastructure, yet returns are diminishing. We need new business models and innovative financing strategies to drive growth. Contributions should also come from the digital giants who profit from network infrastructure. We need a level playing field and fair competition, regulated under unified frameworks.
And of course, affordability. Across several countries in the region, people still lack access to basic smart devices. This blocks participation in the digital economy.
What solutions are being discussed to tackle these investment and inclusion barriers?
We are exploring innovative financing options, expanding the base of contributors, and developing new, inclusive digital business models that promote growth and sustainability. For instance, engaging sectors like education, healthcare, agriculture, and transport. If these industries see the value of 5.5G, it creates new demand and supports return on investment for operators.
There is also significant dialogue underway. Our governments are increasingly open and responsive. We may not always agree on the immediate roadmap, but the conversation is productive and constructive. That is critical for creating long-term solutions.
How does the SAMENA Telecommunications Council Leaders’ Summit 2025 relate to the broader global digital agenda?
The gathering is more than a conference—it is a platform for global dialogue. We are especially honoured that South Africa, which will host the G20 this year, has joined us. For the first time, the G20 is taking place in the Global South. This is an opportunity for non-G20 nations to voice their digital development priorities.
The overarching goal is inclusion. There are still 2.6 billion people unconnected. Our mission is to change that, not just through infrastructure, but through education, affordability, and sustainable policy. No one should be left behind in the digital future.
Hero image: Bocar A. BA, CEO of the SAMENA Telecommunications Council, speaking in Dubai on May 26, 2025. Credit: Arnold Pinto
