Digital technology: Malawi explores a partnership with Swedish company Ericsson
March 5th 2026
Malawi is seeking to accelerate its digital transformation by focusing on developing technological skills. On the sidelines of the Mobile World Congress, the country’s authorities are holding discussions with various partners to this end.
Malawi’s Minister of ICT, Shadric Namalomba, has initiated strategic discussions with the Swedish group Ericsson regarding a potential partnership in the areas of telecommunications and digital training. These discussions took place in Barcelona, Spain, during the Mobile World Congress, which is being held from Monday, March 2nd to Thursday, March 5th, 2026.
The discussions focus primarily on establishing training programs dedicated to emerging technologies, including 5G networks, advanced ICT systems, and artificial intelligence (AI). The goal is to enable young Malawians and professionals to acquire technical skills aligned with current global market needs.
Beyond training, discussions also focused on ways to improve access to connectivity, particularly in rural areas still facing limited internet coverage. Models for deploying more energy-efficient and affordable networks were discussed, with a view to promoting digital inclusion.
For the Malawian government, this partnership with Ericsson is part of a strategy to strengthen the national digital ecosystem. Developing local skills is seen as a key driver for supporting innovation, fostering tech entrepreneurship, and preparing the workforce for the changes brought about by the digital economy.
According to the United Nations Department of Social Affairs (UN DESA), Malawi had a score of 0.1886 out of 1 in 2024 on the Telecommunications Infrastructure Index (TII), a composite indicator that assesses physical connectivity (Internet, mobile, fiber) and citizens’ access to digital services to evaluate digital development.
Internet penetration was projected to reach 18% by the end of 2025, according to DataReportal . It should be noted that no document has been signed between the two parties.
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