Airtel invests K1.3bn in network upgrading

Airtel Malawi has spent $5.2 million (K1.3 billion) to upgrade its network from 3G to 3.75G data service.

This means the company will now be able to provide the fastest data speeds of up to 21 Mpbs (megabits per second) from the current 7.2 Mpbs.

Speaking at the launch in Blantyre, Airtel managing director Saulos Chilima said the development will allow users to make video calls and fast downloads of movies and music.

“Subscribers will also be able to watch live streaming of events, fast uploads and downloads of information, fast access to social media pages and mails from mobile devices,” said Chilima.

He described the data service of 3.75G network infrastructure not only as the widest and largest, but also the most affordable.

A few months ago, the mobile phone operator was awarded the best data operator accolade in the southern and east Africa by the African Telecom people.

Minister of Information Moses Kunkuyu, who was also the guest of honour at the function, stressed the need for the company to provide quality services.

He said government will continue monitoring the operations of Airtel and other phone operators so that Malawians are not given a raw deal.

“Macra is mandated with such a task of monitoring and the service launch today will not be spared. We will ensure that the data service offers what has been said here and to the best expectations of the rural masses too,” said Kunkuyu.