By Monica Banda
Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) Board Member, Stella Tchuthi, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to ensuring universal access to internet across all communities in the country.
Tchuthi made the remarks on Wednesday during an inspection of an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) lab facility at Misale Secondary School which is being constructed with support from the Universal Service Fund (USF), MACRA’s digital inclusion arm.
She noted President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera’s emphasis on ‘100 percent internet access for all Malawians’ as one of the pillars of the Malawi 2063 Agenda
“As MACRA, we are working to make this vision a reality by constructing computer labs in various communities: This initiative is expected to benefit not only students, but also the surrounding community.”
She acknowledged challenges faced in implementing the project, particularly shortage of foreign exchange, which delayed the procurement of imported materials.
Head Teacher of the school, Aron Masaila expressed gratitude to MACRA, describing the facility as a long-awaited development.
“The introduction of the ICT lab has transformed the school’s outlook, and many students will benefit from learning computer skills at an early stage, preparing them for university and beyond,” Masaila said.
Group Village Head Harold Kazawe, under Inkosi Mlonyeni, has since said the community will take responsibility for security and enforce strict measures against vandalism.
“We will ensure the facility is protected, and anyone found misusing or damaging the equipment will face consequences,” Kazawe said.
