Representatives from Malawi and Zambia were observed participating in an event held in Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, where they formally signed a Diplomatic Data Corridor Agreement and a Government-to-Government Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The primary objective of this collaborative effort between the two governments is to enhance internet affordability, bridge the digital gap, and establish an accessible and cost-effective digital market.
The event, which took place recently, was facilitated by Malawi’s Electricity Supply Corporation (ESCOM) and Zambia’s Fibrecom, as reported by Malawi Voice.
In a Facebook post shared by the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), notable figures including Macra DG Daud Suleman, Escom CEO Kamkwamba Kumwenda, Malawi’s Information and Digitalisation Minister Moses Kumkuyu, and his Zambian counterpart Felix Mutati were pictured during the signing ceremony of the commercial agreement and MoU related to the Diplomatic Data Corridor.
During the signing event, Moses Kunkuyu, Malawi’s Minister of Information and Digitalisation, expressed optimism that affordable internet would open up fresh opportunities for citizens. On Zambia’s behalf, Felix Mutati, the Minister of Technology and Science, emphasized the significance of connectivity in fostering economic progress and expanding opportunities.
The essence of the agreement entails establishing a ‘Diplomatic Data Corridor’ connecting Malawi’s Electricity Supply Corporation with Zambia’s Fibrecom, ultimately enabling accessible and affordable internet services.
MACRA, the communications regulatory body of Malawi, underscored that the Diplomatic Data Corridor represents a notable advancement for both nations.
This collaborative effort follows closely on the heels of Malawi gaining access to Elon Musk’s SpaceX internet service via Starlink merely a month ago. Moreover, over 22,000 residences and 3,000 businesses in Malawi are already equipped for fiber connection through ESCOM broadband, signaling ongoing infrastructural developments in the region.
