The Minister of Information, Communication and Technology, Hon. Shadreck Namalomba, MP, has urged ESCOM’s Optic Fiber Communication (OFC) directorate, to expand its internet services to rural areas. The Minister made the call on Thursday, 19th March 2026, when he visited OFC offices in Blantyre.
Speaking during the tour, the Minister emphasized the need for OFC to champion data inclusivity by rolling out internet connectivity in rural areas to support the government’s National Digitization Policy, which aims to transform Malawi into a knowledge-based economy by enhancing public service delivery, expanding high-speed internet access and fostering digital skills to bridge the rural-urban divide.
“It is government’s agenda to ensure everyone has access to internet. You are already rolling out your services in selected towns across the country; make sure that is expanded to rural areas so that even people in villages can enjoy your affordable data services,” said Namalomba.
He then called for the urgent implementation of video conferencing and Internet Protocol (IP) systems across all government institutions, emphasizing that modernizing Malawi’s digital infrastructure is key to improving government efficiency and service delivery.
“The adoption of these systems will significantly enhance communication and data sharing across key public institutions,” noted the Minister.
OFC Director, Stella Senti, said it is the desire of her department to become the country’s fibre backbone by expanding its services to every corner of the nation.
“We are currently in all cities and 10 major towns across the country. We have 7,000 kilometers of fiber, which is enough to connect rural areas and support government’s digitalization agenda,” said Senti.
OFC offers both wholesale and retail optical fiber services for both businesses and individual homes.
Senti has since called for investment in software development, IP networking, and product innovation skills to improve OFC services across Malawi.
During the tour, the Minister was joined by PS for ICT, Harold Msusa; PS for E-Government, Prosper Mopiwa; and ESCOM’s Director of ICT, Zangaphee Chimombo.