Malawi internet expensive, unpredictable–WB
World Bank says internet connectivity in Malawi remains unpredictable and expensive for many people, thereby contributing to persistent gender and rural-urban inequalities in accessing and using digital technology.
The bank-which is Malawi’s largest external creditor through its arm called International Development Association (IDA)-has said this in its latest publication on Malawi, the 13th Malawi Economic Monitor (MEM), a bi-annual analysis of economic and
structural development issues in Malawi.
The publication titled ‘investing in Digital Transformation,’ is currently being launched at Bingu International Convention Center (BICC) in Lilongwe.
World Bank country manager for Malawi Hugh Riddell, however, says despite that Malawi is grappling with internet connectivity issues, it is pleasing to note
that the country has established the essential foundation for public digital platforms with a relatively well-developed digital infrastructure.
According to Riddell, there is, however, a need for government to increase the affordability of smart devices and services, adding that developing Malawi’s digital economy could help diversify and strengthen economic growth, job creation, and innovation.
(Report by Dumbani Mzale)
