By Innocent Manda
The Secretary for Information and Digitalization, Baldwin Chiyamwaka, has hailed the expansion of Telekom Networks Malawi (TNM)’s 5G network within Lilongwe, describing it as a “lifting off” point for all Malawians toward a more digitally empowered future.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Information and Digitalization, Moses Kunkuyu, during the official unveiling ceremony at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC), Chiyamwaka said the continued rollout of 5G technology signals Malawi’s readiness to embrace the global wave of digital innovation and transformation.
“This event is not merely about a technological upgrade; It is a statement to the world that Malawi is determined to position itself among the leaders in innovation. Let us not view 5G as the finish line. It is our starting block, from which we sprint toward a future that is smarter, fairer, and proudly Malawian,” said Chiyamwaka.
Under the theme “Unveiling Possibility: Powering Malawi’s Future with 5G,” the event attracted key stakeholders from the telecommunications sector, government agencies, development partners, and the media.
Chiyamwaka commended TNM for taking the lead in digital transformation, noting that the company, which demonstrated resilience during Cyclone Freddy, is now championing Malawi’s digital future.
“5G is not just about speed, it’s about possibility, it brings the potential for smart agriculture, telemedicine, digital education, emergency response systems, smart cities, and seamless e-government services,” Chiyamwaka continued.
He also emphasized that the government’s vision of digital inclusion, as outlined in Malawi 2063, is being realized through strategic investments such as TNM’s, which align with national goals to foster inclusive development through technology.
“The expansions we’re seeing in the telecom sector reflect the enabling environment created by government policies and regulatory support,” Chiyamwaka added.
Although TNM launched Malawi’s first 5G service several months ago in a pilot phase, it was initially limited to selected areas in Lilongwe. The current phase marks an expansion within the capital city, with the company announcing plans to extend the network to Blantyre soon.
TNM Chief Commercial Office, Mr. Amon Jere, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering high-speed and reliable internet services.
“To our business customers, if you wish to have reliable high-speed connectivity for efficient operations and lightning-fast virtual meetings, switch to TNM,” he said.
Jere also confirmed that while 5G coverage is currently exclusive to Lilongwe, the company is finalizing plans to launch the service in Blantyre and other major cities in due course.
