Malawi Urged to Invest in ICT and Digital Literacy for Universal Access to Information

Malawi recently marked the International Day of Universal Access to Information with a strong call to action for stakeholders to invest in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure and digital literacy. This call aims to enhance citizens' access to information, a crucial element for promoting human rights, transparency, and accountability. The event, themed "Empowering Communities Through Digital Literacy: Access to Information for All," was held in Mzuzu and brought together government officials, civil society organizations, the media, and community representatives.

The event served as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of digital literacy and universal access to information. Commissioner for the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC), Tereza Ndanga, noted that while progress has been made since the operationalization of the Access to Information (ATI) Act in 2020, more effort is needed. Citizens need not only to access information but also to understand and effectively use it. The growing use of digital platforms presents new opportunities for transparency and citizen engagement.

Ndanga emphasized the critical role of digital platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and websites in enhancing access to information. She encouraged public institutions to proactively share information through these platforms and for citizens to use them to demand information. However, Ndanga also highlighted the challenges impeding access to information, emphasizing the need to address these issues to ensure universal access.

Director of Government Communication Services in the Ministry of Information and Digitalization, Moses Michael Phiri, underscored the importance of digital education in combating misinformation and disinformation. He noted that digital education would empower people to use digital spaces effectively, access the right information, and identify reliable sources. Phiri emphasized the Ministry's commitment to promoting transparency and accountability through expanded access to information and improved digital literacy.

The Ministry of Information and Digitalization, along with partners such as the Media Council of Malawi (MCM), MHRC, and the Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR), is working to promote transparency and accountability. These efforts aim to bridge the digital divide and ensure inclusive access to information. The stakeholders recognize the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to achieve this goal.

Media Council of Malawi Executive Director, Moses Kaufa, called for collective action toward a digitally empowered Malawi. He emphasized that the event should mark the beginning of renewed efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure inclusive access to information. Kaufa also reminded media professionals of their dual role as information providers and educators in helping audiences navigate misinformation and uphold ethical journalism.

The event included the presentation of awards to institutions that performed well in implementing the Access to Information Act in 2025. Awardees included Blantyre Water Board, Central Medical Stores Trust, Malawi Parliament, and Roads Fund Administration. These awards recognize institutions that have made significant efforts to promote access to information, setting examples for others to follow.

Key points

• The Malawi Human Rights Commission emphasizes the need for digital literacy to enhance access to information.
• The Ministry of Information and Digitalization commits to promoting transparency and accountability through expanded access to information and improved digital literacy.
• A multi-stakeholder approach is called for to bridge the digital divide and ensure inclusive access to information in Malawi.