By Burnett Munthali
Malawi, alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola, has been selected as one of the 15 countries to benefit from the ambitious $2.4 billion Inclusive Digitalization in Eastern and Southern Africa Programme funded by the World Bank. This groundbreaking initiative is set to span over eight years, aiming to significantly enhance digital infrastructure and accessibility across the region.
Paul Katema, Director of eGovernment at Malawi’s Ministry of Information and Digitalization, highlighted the pivotal role of this funding in advancing the country’s Digital Malawi Acceleration Project. “The funds allocated will facilitate the second phase of our Digital Malawi Acceleration Project, focusing on expanding digital infrastructure,” Katema affirmed.
The initiative, supported by the International Development Association and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, aims to benefit approximately 180 million people across the 15 participating countries by 2032. These nations currently have less than 50 percent high-speed internet access, a critical barrier to economic development and social connectivity in the digital age.
“The programme seeks to bridge the digital divide by ensuring more equitable access to high-speed internet services,” explained a World Bank spokesperson. By leveraging digital technologies, the initiative aims to empower communities, foster innovation, and stimulate economic growth across Eastern and Southern Africa.
In Malawi, the implementation of the Digital Malawi Acceleration Project’s second phase is expected to bolster digital literacy, enhance public service delivery, and create opportunities for entrepreneurship and job creation in the digital economy. The initiative aligns with Malawi’s broader development agenda, focusing on harnessing technology to drive socio-economic transformation and improve livelihoods.
“With this strategic investment, Malawi is poised to make significant strides in digital inclusion, ultimately contributing to sustainable development goals and ensuring no one is left behind in the digital revolution,” concluded Katema.
As Malawi and its regional counterparts embark on this transformative journey, the Inclusive Digitalization Programme signifies a milestone in advancing connectivity and digital empowerment across Eastern and Southern Africa, paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
