Malawi continues to face challenges in digital connectivity, with only 20% of its population accessing the internet. This limited penetration, coupled with a broadband coverage rate of 35%, has been identified as a major obstacle to achieving the country’s economic aspirations, as highlighted by Dr Shadric Namalomba, the Minister of Information and Digitisation.
During a recent parliamentary session, Namalomba noted that achieving the current level of internet access is “a long way” from the national goal of 80% by 2030. He emphasised the government’s commitment to positioning digitisation as a crucial driver of economic progress and enhancement of public services.
According to the minister, connectivity has grown, with mobile broadband penetration rising to 46%. Furthermore, the cost of international wholesale bandwidth has decreased from US$12 to US$4.20 per Mbps, contributing to lower retail data prices in the market.
To bolster these advancements, the government is modernising the National Data Centre to accommodate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing capabilities. This effort is complemented by ongoing reforms at the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority and upgrades to the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation to strengthen regulatory frameworks and digital communication systems.
Namalomba also stressed the importance of prioritising digital governance. The government is implementing official communication systems, transitioning institutions to digital formats, and providing cybersecurity training for senior officials to enhance efficiency and safeguard data nationwide.
The initiative is not merely about infrastructure; it focuses on creating a secure, digitally-enabled economy that invites participation from all Malawians, the minister asserted in Parliament. Additionally, the Ministry is accelerating Phase III of the National Fibre Backbone Project to ensure that reduced bandwidth costs benefit rural areas, where connectivity remains most limited.
