Lack of internet access can be addressed by making mobile phones affordable in African countries. This is crucial for ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status, can participate in the digital economy

The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) plans to launch a local smart device assembly program aimed at producing affordable mobile phones to bridge the significant digital divide in the country, Director General of MACRA Daud Suleman revealed on August 14. This was during the 3rd session of the National Youths Conversations hosted by the National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM) as part of commemoration of the International Youth Day 2024.

The Director General emphasized the importance of a collaborative effort from various stakeholders to enhance digital service access across the nation. “We need a multi-sectoral approach for citizens to have access to digital services at a reasonable distance,” he stated.

According to the Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI), cell phones, particularly smartphones, are still inaccessible to low-income populations in Africa. This situation hinders the participation of most of Africa’s population in the digital economy. Without a phone, there is no way to connect to the Internet or use digital services. The price disparity between cell phones and average incomes also exacerbates digital inequalities. People who cannot afford these devices miss out on the benefits of digital technology, including access to information, financial services, online education, and economic opportunities.

While no specific launch date has been provided, the upcoming initiative is expected to address the disparity in digital access.

The initiative aligns with the Malawi 2063 (MW2063) agenda, which seeks to transform Malawi into a prosperous, self-sufficient, and industrialized 'upper-middle-income country' by 2063.

Hikmatu Bilali