By Pauline Kaude:
Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr. Shadric Namalomba, has described the Huawei Malawi Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Talent Development Programme as a major boost to the country’s digital transformation agenda.
Speaking during the programme’s launch in Lilongwe on Wednesday, Namalomba said the initiative has come at the right time, as it would equip young Malawians with practical digital skills and training opportunities needed to drive innovation and advance the country’s digital transformation agenda.
He said the programme would help develop a future workforce that can contribute to Malawi 2063 by providing hands on learning and exposure to emerging technologies.
“A digitally skilled population is essential for creating high-value jobs and supporting emerging sectors of the economy,” he said.
He commended Huawei Technologies for its role in strengthening ICT capacity development in Malawi and globally through initiatives such as ICT academies, certification programmes, scholarships, and innovation training noting that these efforts align with government’s vision of building a knowledge based economy.
Namalomba said Huawei Technologies has not only brought technology to Malawi but also opportunity, training, and hope.
“Your investment in ICT academies, certification programmes, and now this Talent Development Programme, is building the very foundation of our digital future. Thank you for believing in our youth,” he said.
He called for stronger collaboration between universities and industries to ensure training is aligned with emerging technological needs and the labour market.
Chinese Ambassador to Malawi, Lu Xu, said the programme is a key milestone in strengthening China-Malawi digital cooperation adding that since 2016, Huawei, with support from the Chinese Embassy, has trained 345 ICT professionals in Malawi.
According to Xu, the programme will this year train about 500 students in advanced technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence, cloud computing and digital energy.
Board Director for Huawei Southern Africa, Jason Xu, said for more than two decades Huawei has partnered with Malawi to expand national connectivity, including the rollout of 2G, 3G and 4G networks across the country.
He said from 2026 to 2030, the company will train 1,000 Malawian students in professional ICT skills in partnership with the National College of Information Technology (NACIT) under the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology.
Huawei Technologies has also supported the development of key digital infrastructure, including the National Fibre Backbone and Malawi’s first National Data Centre.
