By Suleman Chitera

Minister of Information and Communications Technology Dr. Shadric Namalomba has announced that the government will construct additional mobile network towers in Balaka, Nkhata Bay, Thyolo and Chitipa districts through the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA)’s Universal Service Fund as part of efforts to improve digital connectivity across the country.

Speaking in Parliament, Namalomba said the initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to expand mobile and internet coverage, particularly in underserved rural communities where access to communication services remains limited.Airtel Malawi to Invest Up to K60 Billion in Network Expansion

He revealed that approximately 100 network towers have already been secured through financing from the World Bank, while telecommunications companies Airtel Malawi and TNM are expected to construct more than 450 additional towers over the next five years.

According to the Minister, the planned investments are expected to support the government’s ambition of ensuring that eight out of every 10 Malawians have access to reliable telecommunications services by 2030.

Namalomba made the remarks while responding to a question from Balaka Rivirivi Member of Parliament Chigundo Makande, who sought clarification on whether the government would facilitate the installation of a mobile network tower at Kwitanda Trading Centre in Balaka District.

In response, the Minister confirmed that Balaka is among the districts earmarked to benefit from the programme during the 2026/27 financial year.Malawi to Invite Bids for Third Mobile Network Operator to Boost Competition

He said the project will be implemented through the Universal Service Fund under MACRA, with support from development partners.

Namalomba acknowledged that network coverage gaps continue to affect many parts of the country, limiting communication, access to digital services and economic opportunities for rural communities.

He said the government is working closely with MACRA, the Universal Service Fund and development partners, including the World Bank, to expand digital infrastructure and ensure that more Malawians are connected to reliable mobile and internet services.

The planned rollout is expected to improve communication, enhance access to online education, digital financial services and e-government platforms, while supporting economic development in areas that have historically experienced poor network coverage.Malawi Freedom Network Congratulates Mutharika on His Historic Return to Power

The government’s digital infrastructure expansion programme is part of ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive national development through improved access to information and communication technologies.