The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) is the government body responsible for regulating communication services in Malawi. This includes mobile networks, internet services, radio and television broadcasting, postal services, and the use of radio frequencies.
Simply put, MACRA makes sure that Malawians can communicate easily, safely, and affordably, while also ensuring that service providers operate fairly and responsibly.
What MACRA Does
MACRA’s main role is to regulate and guide Malawi’s communications sector in the public interest. It licenses service providers, manages radio frequency spectrum, sets standards, and monitors how companies deliver their services.
Through this work, MACRA helps ensure that communication services are reliable, affordable, and available to as many people as possible, including those in rural areas. The Authority also protects consumers by making sure their rights are respected and that service providers follow the rules.
Strong communication systems support many areas of daily life, including education, healthcare, business, government services, and access to information. This makes MACRA an important contributor to Malawi’s national development.
As technology continues to grow, communication services are becoming more important than ever. MACRA plays a key role in helping Malawi keep up with digital change, while making sure new technologies benefit the public.
By encouraging innovation and competition, while also enforcing clear rules, MACRA helps create a balanced communications sector that supports growth and inclusion.
MACRA started the year with renewed energy, as staff returned to work and gathered at the new Head Offices in Blantyre and Lilongwe. These meetings allowed teams to reconnect and also meet the new Acting Director General, Mayamiko Nkoloma, for the first time.
The sessions created an open space for discussion, alignment, and shared purpose as the organisation looks ahead.
Mayamiko Nkoloma’s Focus as Acting Director General
In his address to staff, Nkoloma highlighted the importance of teamwork and professionalism. His goal is to build a modern, flexible, and respected regulator that can respond quickly to changes in technology.
“We need a MACRA that empowers innovation while protecting and empowering consumers,” he said, stressing the need to support progress while keeping the public interest at the centre of all decisions.
His leadership focus is on improving service delivery, strengthening trust in the organisation, and ensuring that MACRA continues to play a leading role in Malawi’s communications future.
Nkoloma also reminded staff that values matter. He called for integrity, transparency, and accountability in all areas of work, making it clear that corruption has no place at MACRA.
“As we serve, let us act with integrity, transparency, accountability, and above all, zero tolerance for corruption,” he said.
This message reinforces MACRA’s responsibility to serve the public honestly and fairly.
Speaking on behalf of the staff, Patience Nkombezi expressed strong support for the Acting Director General. She said the meetings set a positive tone for the year and described Nkoloma’s journey as inspiring, encouraging staff to reflect on their own growth and contribution.
The message from staff was clear: they are motivated, united, and ready to work together.
With new leadership, clear direction, and a committed team, MACRA is well-positioned for the year ahead. As Malawi continues to rely more on digital and communication services, MACRA’s role will remain essential.
Focused on service, integrity, and national development, MACRA is ready to support a connected Malawi through reliable, affordable, and accessible communication services for all
