Ministry of Information and Communications Technology Malawi

10/06/2026

Malawi to Operationalise National Data Exchange Platform with Binding Protocols

The Ministry of Information and Communications Technology has announced plans to introduce a Government Data Sharing Regulation that will provide the operational rules for the National Data Exchange Platform, Boma Lathu, which is currently being implemented.

Speaking during a meeting with Huawei officials in China, Minister Dr. Shadric Namalomba noted that while Malawi has already established the National Data Centre, enacted the Data Protection Act (2024), and developed the Boma Lathu platform, government bodies continue to rely on informal methods such as email, USB drives and paper to share citizen information.

The missing piece, he said, is a binding regulation that sets out exactly how to exchange data securely and responsibly through the platform.

“We have the infrastructure and the portal, but without clear rules of engagement, the system cannot serve its purpose,” Dr. Namalomba said. “The regulation will turn our technical investment into a trusted, legally compliant foundation for digital government.”

The proposed regulation will embed the following key operational safeguards into the Boma Lathu platform:

1. Centralized Exchange Protocols- all data requests will be routed securely through the National Data Centre, replacing informal transfer practices.

2. Mandatory Security Standards – Encryption requirements will apply to all data transfers and storage, ensuring resilience against breaches.

3. Interoperability Framework – A common digital standard will allow different government systems to communicate seamlessly, reducing duplication and fragmentation.

4. Formalised Agreements – Every approved exchange will be governed by binding Data Sharing Agreements, with clear usage limits and full audit trails to guarantee accountability.

Alongside the World Bank‑funded Digital Malawi Acceleration Project (DMAP), the National Data Centre is also being upgraded to an AI‑ready state, ensuring the infrastructure can support future‑forward services.

"A US$180 million ICT investment plan discussed with Huawei will further strengthen the systems powering Boma Lathu and the broader data exchange ecosystem", he added.

By embedding these rules into the platform’s operation, the regulation the minister said will complement existing privacy legislation, strengthen institutional collaboration, and unlock the full potential of the National Data Centre as the secure hub of government data sharing. It is expected to be tabled as a statutory instrument before the end of the year.

09/06/2026

Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr. Shadric Namalomba, is in China working with Huawei on a $180 million national ICT investment plan for the next four years.

During a meeting with Huawei officials on Monday, Namalomba outlined a four-year roadmap built on two key pillars.

The pillars include a one-stop digital government platform – a single web portal where citizens can access all government services, including passports, business registration, and tax payments.

The other pillar is national connectivity – a high-speed network connecting all 28 districts, with ring protection technology to ensure that no single cable cut disrupts service.

This initiative is not merely about infrastructure. It is about delivering efficient, transparent, and uninterrupted government services to every Malawian.

One hundred and eighty million dollars. Four years. A connected and digitally empowered Malawi.

Building a digitally transformed Malawi for all.

04/06/2026

Minister of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Dr. Shadric Namalomba says the vision of his Ministry over the next three years is to build a connected, secure, and inclusive digital nation in which every citizen, institution, and enterprise can participate meaningfully in the digital economy.

Namalomba said this when he officially opened the 2026 International ICT Expo at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe Thursday, adding that digital transformation is no longer optional but strategic necessity for national development.

He said the focus will be on expanding broadband access, accelerating digital public services, strengthening cybersecurity and data governance, and equipping the countrys young people with the skills required to innovate, create jobs, and compete globally.

In his keynote address, ICT Association of Malawi president, Clarence Gama, commended government for its commitment in promoting ICT innovations and digital solutions in the country, and appealed for sustainability of the commitment until connectivity spreads even across Malawi.

Minister of Industrialization, Business, Trade and Tourism, Simon Itaye, who was among the speakers, also concurred with Gama, and he invited all players in the private sector to explore local innovation.

04/06/2026

03/06/2026

Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr. Shadric Namalomba, has said the Huawei Malawi ICT Talent Development Programme will equip young Malawians with critical digital skills needed to drive innovation, create jobs and support the country's digital transformation agenda.

Speaking during the programme's launch in Lilongwe in Tuesday, Namalomba said the initiative will help bridge the digital skills gap through practical training in key technology fields, while contributing to the achievement of Malawi 2063.

He commended Huawei Technologies, the Government of China and academic institutions for supporting ICT talent development and called for stronger collaboration between industry and universities to better prepare young people for opportunities in the digital economy.

03/06/2026

Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr Shadric Namalomba, is today launching the 2026 Huawei Malawi Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Training in Lilongwe.

The initiative, organised by China-based Huawei Technologies, aims to empower young people with digital and technological skills, while also supporting ICT students in development of innovative ICT solutions in Malawi.

The Minister has presented awards to students from various universities who have excelled in ICT innovation.

02/06/2026

The Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr. Shadric Namalomba, today toured Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR’s ) Bunda Campus to appreciate the various technologies developed and adopted by the institution.

The Minister commended the university for embracing innovative solutions such as drone technology, which is enhancing agricultural research, productivity, and efficiency.

Speaking during the visit, LUANAR Vice Chancellor, Professor James Seyani, said the university is implementing a number of initiatives that align with the mandate of the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology.

Namalomba noted that advancing technology and innovation in higher learning institutions is key to Malawi’s socio-economic transformation.

02/06/2026

Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Dr. Shadric Namalomba, today toured the Ryalls Hotel project currently under construction at Lilongwe Golf Club.

The 180-bedroom state-of-the-art facility, which represents an investment of approximately US$60 million is expected to make a significant contribution to Malawi’s tourism and hospitality sector.

The majority investor in the project is Nico Group, through Blantyre Hotels Plc and ICON Properties Plc. Other key investors include the Public Service Pension Fund Trust, SUCOMA Pension Fund, Limbe Leaf Pension Fund, and APT Pension Fund.

Dr. Namalomba commended the project for its commitment to local participation, noting that 60 percent of the value-added services have been sourced from Malawian service providers. He further encouraged the investors to continue engaging local businesses and professionals to maximize economic benefits for Malawians.

The Ryalls Hotel project is expected to enhance Lilongwe’s capacity to host international visitors, conferences, and business events while contributing to national economic development.

29/05/2026

Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr. Shadric Namalomba, today attended the Innovation Talk Series hosted at UniPod Malawi at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS).





Malawi

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