Malawi digital economy could double GDP contribution by 2030

A new GSMA report reveals that while Malawi has achieved significant mobile broadband coverage, a massive usage gap remains. Approximately 80% of the population lives within coverage areas but does not use mobile internet, with unique mobile internet penetration at only 12.5%.

Minister of Information and Communications Technology Shadric Namalomba stated that digitalization currently contributes 6.5% to Malawi’s GDP, but this could rise to 13% by 2030 with increased access. Addressing this gap could potentially unlock MWK 1.1 trillion in economic value and create 490,000 jobs by 2030.

Key barriers to adoption include the high cost of smartphones, limited digital literacy, and lack of access to foreign currency for network operators to upgrade equipment. The GSMA has proposed designating telecommunications as critical national infrastructure to facilitate foreign exchange access and has called for a spectrum roadmap and longer-term licenses to encourage investment.