By Jones Gadama

The National Bank of Malawi (NBM), platinum sponsor of the ongoing ICTAM 2025 Expo, has emphasized the need for improved electricity access in rural areas to fully harness the country’s digital potential.

Speaking on the sidelines of the expo, NBM Head of Digital Banking, William Kaunda, highlighted the corporate sector’s readiness to trust local ICT experts but cited network connectivity challenges in rural communities due to poor power infrastructure.

Kaunda noted that NBM is already partnering with local ICTAM members, but the lack of reliable electricity in rural areas hinders the full exploitation of digital opportunities.

“We need to address the issue of electricity access in rural areas to unlock our digital potential,” Kaunda said.

ICTAM Secretary General Andrew Kamwendo echoed Kaunda’s sentiments, stating that local ICT professionals now offer skills comparable to global providers. However, many companies still import services unnecessarily, Kamwendo added.

Reserve Bank of Malawi Governor Macdonald Mafuta Mwale noted that government ministries and departments are increasingly contracting local ICT providers, a trend that could boost the local digital economy.

The two-day ICTAM 2025 Expo, themed “Accelerating Malawi’s Digital Economy with Innovation and Inclusion,” is currently underway at the BICC in Lilongwe.

NBM has contributed K20 million as the main sponsor, demonstrating its commitment to promoting Malawi’s digital economy.

The expo provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities in the digital sector, with a focus on innovation, inclusion, and collaboration.

By addressing issues like electricity access and promoting local ICT expertise, Malawi can accelerate its digital transformation and unlock new economic opportunities.