The Airtel Africa Foundation, through Airtel Malawi, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Malawi’s digital innovation landscape by pledging K80 million towards the 2026 MACRA ICT Innovation Awards 2026.
The funding is expected to go beyond awards and recognition, with a strong focus on capacity building.
The initiative aims to equip Malawian innovators with essential skills, tools, and platforms needed to thrive in an increasingly digital economy, in line with the country’s long-term development blueprint, Malawi Vision 2063.
Through key programmes such as Adopt-A-School and Airtel Nzeru Connect, the foundation is already making strides in supporting primary and secondary education by establishing digital and ICT laboratories in schools across the country.
At the tertiary level, the Airtel Africa Fellowship—locally known as the Airtel Nzeru Fund—is providing full scholarships in STEM fields at the Malawi University of Science and Technology, helping to nurture the next generation of innovators.
Managing Director of Airtel Malawi, Aashish Dutt, emphasized that innovation extends beyond technology to unlocking human potential and creating transformative opportunities.
He noted that through scholarships, improved connectivity, and platforms like the innovation awards, the foundation is committed to supporting innovators from idea stage to real-world impact.
Meanwhile, Director General of the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority, Mayamiko Nkoloma, welcomed the contribution, describing it as a major boost to Malawi’s innovation ecosystem.
He said the support will play a crucial role in empowering young people with the skills and opportunities needed to drive the ambitions of Malawi Vision 2063.
