Malawi has expanded rural digital connectivity with the activation of a new telecommunications tower in Kalira Village, Traditional Authority Kalumbu, providing improved mobile and internet services to a community that has historically faced limited network access.
The tower was developed under the Last Mile Rural Connectivity Project, a government initiative focused on extending telecommunications infrastructure to underserved areas. The Kalira facility is the 36th telecommunications tower delivered under the programme.
Covering approximately 10 square kilometres, the new tower is expected to improve access to mobile calls, internet services and mobile money for residents. Schools, health centres and local businesses are also expected to benefit from more reliable connectivity, supporting communication, education, healthcare delivery and digital commerce.
Minister of Information and Communications Technology Shadric Namalomba said the project would contribute to efforts to narrow Malawi’s digital divide. He also highlighted the importance of affordable smartphones so that more citizens can fully benefit from expanded network coverage.
The government plans to construct a further 99 telecommunications towers under the broader rural connectivity programme, with the initiative expected to reach its target by June 2027.
The expansion forms part of Malawi’s wider digitalisation agenda, including efforts to improve access to digital public services under President Peter Mutharika’s administration.
For residents of Kalira, the new infrastructure is expected to significantly improve everyday access to communications by reducing the need to travel or climb hills to find a reliable network signal. The project also creates opportunities for greater digital participation and economic activity in the rural community.
