By Sheminah Nkhoma
Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has highlighted the importance of the Broadband Mapping System, saying it will enhance high-speed internet connectivity and improve service delivery across the country.
Speaking on Tuesday in Lilongwe during the launch of the National Broadband Mapping System, Director of Telecommunications at MACRA, Edward Kauka, said the initiative aligns with the authoritys mission to promote universal access and protect consumer interests.
He explained that identifying connectivity gaps through the system will allow strategic deployment of infrastructure, ensuring that everyone has access to reliable internet services.
“Through this mapping system, we will be able to engage with more stakeholders to design interventions that improve both access and affordability. As a result, the number of people benefiting from broadband connectivity will rise significantly,” he said.
Kauka added that while MACRA has implemented several initiatives, such as the Connect a School Project, there are still gaps in internet connectivity that need to be addressed.
“The strategic measures have been put in place to ensure the effective implementation of broadband mapping across all regions of the country,”he stated.Project Manager of the Africa Broadband Mapping System initiative under the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Dana Jon Kamason, said the goal of the initiative is to ensure broadband systems are maintained across Africa and to address existing connectivity gaps.
He noted that the project is being implemented in 11 countries, with Malawi being the eighth to adopt the system, both technically and in terms of policy development.
Kamason expressed optimism that initiatives like this will significantly increase connectivity rates nationwide.
Team leader for the EU delegation to Malawi, Sven Ruesch, said the programme mapping serves as a tool to highlight investment opportunities by identifying areas that will benefit most from digital infrastructure development.
“We are convinced that by fostering an environment that is both competitive and secure in Malawi, MACRA and the relevant ICT stakeholders will lay the foundation for robust digital infrastructure investments that will drive growth and resilience,” he said.
Despite ongoing efforts, statistics indicate that internet access in Malawi remains low.
The three-day event aims to map broadband infrastructure and promote inclusive digital transformation across Sub-Saharan Africa.
