Suleman Chitera 
By Suleman Chitera
Minister of Information and Communications Technology Dr Shadric Namalomba has challenged Malawian technology professionals to stop being mere consumers of imported technology and start developing home-grown digital solutions capable of generating foreign exchange and transforming the country’s economy.
Namalomba said Malawi must move beyond importing technological products and services and begin positioning its ICT sector as a major contributor to national economic growth through innovation, entrepreneurship and technology exports.
He made the remarks in Mangochi on Thursday when he presided as Guest of Honour at the Information and Communication Technology Association of Malawi (ICTAM) 20th Anniversary Celebration, Annual General Meeting and Innovation Awards.
The Minister said Malawi has enormous opportunities to build a competitive digital economy, urging local ICT professionals to take advantage of emerging technologies to develop products and services that can compete in international markets.
He identified software development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) and other technology-enabled services as potential areas through which Malawi could earn foreign exchange and strengthen its position in the global digital marketplace.
From technology consumers to technology exporters
Namalomba challenged ICT professionals to change their mindset and recognise technology not only as a tool for communication and convenience but also as a business opportunity capable of creating wealth.
He encouraged them to establish technology companies, develop innovative digital products and build businesses that create employment opportunities for young people while contributing to Malawi’s economic transformation.
His message comes at a time when digital innovation is increasingly shaping global economies, with countries investing in software, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and cybersecurity to unlock new sources of revenue.
For Malawi, developing locally owned technology businesses could help reduce dependence on imported digital solutions while creating opportunities for local expertise to serve customers beyond the country’s borders.
ICT sector holds economic opportunities
The Minister’s challenge also places responsibility on Malawi’s technology industry to turn innovation into commercially viable products.
With the right investment, skills development and business environment, Malawian ICT professionals could tap into international demand for software solutions, digital security, artificial intelligence applications and other technology-based services.
The ICTAM anniversary celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on the association’s contribution to Malawi’s technology industry while recognising innovation and encouraging stronger participation in the country’s digital transformation agenda.
Namalomba’s message was clear: Malawi must not remain a market for other countries’ technological innovations. It must develop its own solutions, build technology businesses and turn digital expertise into an engine of exports, employment and economic growth.
