• Malawi, Ericsson discuss telecom and digital training partnership

• Talks held during Mobile World Congress in Barcelona

• Discussions include 5G training and expanding rural internet connectivity

Malawi’s Minister of Information and Digitalization, Shadric Namalomba, held talks with Swedish telecom group Ericsson on a potential partnership in telecommunications and digital training. The meeting took place in Barcelona, Spain, during the Mobile World Congress held from March 2 to March 5, 2026.

Discussions focused on establishing training programs in emerging technologies, including 5G networks, advanced ICT systems and artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to equip Malawian youth and professionals with technical skills aligned with global market needs.

The talks also explored ways to expand connectivity, particularly in rural areas where internet coverage remains limited. Participants discussed energy-efficient and lower-cost network deployment models as part of efforts to promote digital inclusion.

For the Malawian government, the discussions with Ericsson are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem. Developing local technical skills is seen as a key driver of innovation, technological entrepreneurship and workforce readiness for the digital economy.

According to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), Malawi recorded a score of 0.1886 out of 1 on the Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (TII) in 2024. The index measures connectivity infrastructure such as internet, mobile and fiber networks, as well as access to digital services.

Internet penetration in Malawi stood at 18% at the end of 2025, according to DataReportal. No agreement has yet been signed between the two parties.

Adoni Conrad Quenum