By Chisomo Phiri
Coordinator of Chairpersons in parliament,Joyce Chitsulo,has stressed the need for legislators to establish a legal framework that supports the adoption of digital trade protocols in the country.
Speaking on behalf of Speaker Catherine Gotani Hara at a one-day African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Digital Training Protocol Sensitization Workshop on Saturday, Chitsulo emphasized the importance of enacting laws that support digital trade within Malawi and across Africa.
“It is crucial for us to align with global digital trade practices as most activities are now conducted electronically and digitally,” Chitsulo said.
She also highlighted the role of lawmakers in advocating for increased funding to facilitate digital marketing initiatives and ensure constituencies benefit from these endeavors.
Chitsulo commended the Malawi Communication Regulatory Authority (MACRA) for its efforts to provide internet connectivity in all constituency Community Day Secondary Schools, noting that this initiative will bolster digital trade in the country.
“As members of parliament, we are committed to raising awareness in our constituencies about the significance of digital trade.
“Despite challenges with internet connectivity, the government, through MACRA, is executing projects like the ‘connect to a school’ initiative, which will support digital trade implementation,” she said.
In her opening remarks, Secretary for Trade and Industry Christina Zakeyo hailed the workshop as a significant milestone in ensuring Malawi’s active participation in the AfCFTA framework and maximizing its benefits.
Zakeyo highlighted that adopting the digital trade protocol will provide Malawi with continental agreements, offering a platform to embrace digital trade practices that can unlock new economic opportunities, enhance business competitiveness, and increase citizen engagement in the digital economy.
