The Ministry of Information and Communications Technology has intensified calls for faster implementation of the Digital Malawi Project, warning that delays could derail the country’s ambition of achieving seamless nationwide connectivity by 2030.
Minister responsible, Shadric Namalomba, made the remarks in Lilongwe during a high-level engagement with the World Bank implementation team, where progress on the flagship initiative came under review.
Namalomba reaffirmed government’s commitment to a fully digitised public sector, highlighting ongoing efforts to connect all ministries and departments, expand access to online government services, and extend internet connectivity to at least 2,000 schools across the country.
He stressed that improved access to affordable, high-quality internet is central to transforming public service delivery and enhancing efficiency through digital systems.
However, the minister expressed concern over the slow pace of implementation in key areas, particularly the upgrading of the national data centre, which currently stands at just 24 percent completion.
Drawing from broader government commitments under the State of the Nation Address (SONA), Namalomba emphasised that the Digital Malawi Project is not operating in isolation, but is part of a wider digital transformation agenda.
This includes:
Leveraging artificial intelligence and automation to modernise government operations
Strengthening cybersecurity systems to safeguard digital infrastructure
Expanding ICT infrastructure to reach hundreds of public institutions
Investing in human capital development, with targets to train skilled ICT personnel
Enhancing governance through strategic digital leadership frameworks
The minister also pointed to ongoing efforts to promote the use of online platforms such as the Boma Lathu system, aimed at improving citizen access to government services, as well as the rollout of the electronic procurement system, which is expected to increase transparency and efficiency in public procurement.
Namalomba has since urged the World Bank to expedite critical processes, including the timely disbursement of funds, to ensure that implementation timelines are met.
Despite the challenges, he expressed optimism that once completed, the project will position Malawi as a competitive destination for digital investment and innovation.
World Bank Digital Malawi Project Team Leader, Tim Kelly, assured both the minister and Malawians that the institution remains committed to delivering the project within the agreed timeframe.
The Digital Malawi Project, funded by the World Bank at a cost of 150 million US dollars, remains the country’s largest data connectivity initiative and a cornerstone of Malawi’s digital transformation drive.
By Isaac Jali
