By Wendy Mkandawire
The government says it is working to improve the information sector through digitalization, including bringing in a third network provider to connect people in remote villages and reducing taxes on low-cost smartphones.
Speaking on Thursday during a GSMA summit in Lilongwe, Minister of Information and Technology Shadreck Namalomba said the government is committed to expanding network and internet access nationwide.
The minister said digitalization will involve licensing a third network provider to reach communities that are currently underserved.
Namalomba also highlighted infrastructure challenges, noting frequent call drops caused by difficulties in accessing forex to buy equipment for network upgrades.
“to improve uptake, the government plans to promote low-entry smartphones by reducing taxes, including VAT and surtax”, he added.
The minister further stated that the government will introduce local language interfaces to make internet access easier.
He noted that only 12% of Malawians currently have internet access and said efforts are underway to expand that figure.
Commenting on the matter, Minister of Finance Joseph Mwanamvekha said the summit aligns with the Africa Agenda 2063 and that his ministry will provide financial support to drive digitalization.
He said the government has imposed small levies on network providers and users to generate income for development and stressed that advancing digitalization is key to achieving the 2063 vision.
