Airtel Malawi plans new network sites in partnership with ESCOM
Airtel Malawi is moving forward with its plans to expand its network with a partnership with ESCOM. The initiative will see the establishment of 19 new sites, aimed at enhancing digitisation. This is in line with the digitisation plan of the nation and meets the infrastructure demands created by fast-growing sectors such as iGaming.
Meeting with ICT Minister reinforces infrastructure goals
Airtel Malawi plc held a courtesy meeting on 14 November with the newly appointed Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Shadric Namalomba. The meeting reaffirmed the company’s focus on digital infrastructure, service quality, and national development.
Interim Board Chairperson Kaisi Sadala and Managing Director Aashish Dutt led the delegation. Senior officials responsible for legal, regulatory, and network operations also attended the meeting. The discussion explored collaboration opportunities that can accelerate Malawi’s digital transformation efforts.
ESCOM partnership supports new network sites
Airtel is partnering with ESCOM to leverage overhead power lines for network expansion. This partnership will help enable the rollout of 19 additional network sites. These sites aim to improve coverage and reduce service gaps in underserved regions.
Such improvements hold direct value for Malawi’s digital economy. The iGaming industry depends on reliable networks, stable speeds, and broader mobile coverage. These new sites can help reduce delays and enhance user experience for online gaming platforms and mobile betting services.
Airtel highlights investment and operational strength
Sadala congratulated Minister Namalomba on his appointment and explained Airtel’s infrastructure plans. He emphasised the company’s ongoing efforts to improve both network coverage and customer experience across Malawi.
Dutt reported that Airtel spends about K19 billion (US$10.9 million) each year on digital infrastructure investments. He added that their contribution to taxes is about K200 billion (US$115.4 million) in 2025. Airtel’s coverage extends to 2G, 3G, and 4G networks at all sites, and redundancy routes include Zambia, Mozambique, and Tanzania. These routes ensure stable connectivity for users and businesses that rely on uninterrupted service.
Airtel is also partnering with Starlink Lilongwe Ltd to extend connectivity in underserved communities. This partnership will help reduce connectivity gaps that affect digital services, including iGaming operators seeking consistent network access.
Government addresses forex and tax challenges
The meeting also examined challenges affecting network expansion. These include foreign exchange shortages that restrict timely equipment procurement and maintenance activities. Minister Namalomba said the government would engage the Ministry of Finance to prioritise payments to foreign vendors.
He encouraged local solutions to support digital access. These solutions include smartphone assembly within Malawi to make devices more accessible and affordable. Improved device accessibility directly supports markets that depend on mobile engagement, such as online sports betting and digital gaming platforms.
Tax policy adjustments were also discussed. The Minister suggested shifting from taxing devices to taxing services to make smartphones more affordable. He proposed creating a joint working committee between the government and ICT stakeholders to meet quarterly. The committee would address dropped calls, high taxes, and forex constraints.
Stronger networks to support Malawi’s digital future
Airtel’s efforts to construct 19 new sites in its network are an added advantage to creating a connected Malawi. This initiative will go towards boosting developments in the nation and enhancing sectors such as the technology industry, which heavily relies on connectivity. The iGaming industry will also be positively affected by enhanced connectivity.
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