5G Evolution and Supply Chain Security in MENA Region: Challenges and Opportunities

This Article highlights the rapid evolution of mobile technology from 4G to 5G, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. By 2030, 5G is expected to dominate with 5.3 billion connections, offering improved network security, encryption, and threat detection. CISOs and organizations can leverage 5G's speed and AI for better threat identification and resolution. However, it also introduces security challenges, including cybersecurity threats, supply chain vulnerabilities, privacy concerns, IoT device security, and authentication management. Supply chain security is critical due to porous boundaries, posing data interception, and operational disruption risks. Trust between supply chain partners is essential in risk management. The Authors emphasize effective supply chain risk management in the context of 5G in MENA. we covered the best practices such as vendor selection, supplier diversity, audits, secure development, monitoring, security standards adherence, incident response planning, employee training, encryption, and collaboration. It further discusses initiatives and organizations, such as SAFECode, UL, and OpenSSF, dedicated to enhancing supply chain security. The article concludes by underlining the significance of proactive supply chain risk management in the MENA region amidst the 5G era, addressing specific challenges and opportunities in supply chain security.