By Judgement Katika
Government is not yet satisfied with the current data rates and it is working hard to address the situation in order to promote easy access to information among the citizens of this country.
Minister of Information Gospel Kazako made the remarks during a pannel discussion titled ‘digital rights and inclusion’ organised by Paradigm Intiative and Youth and Society in Lilongwe on Thursday.
Kazako added that while government is trying hard to ensure affordable data rates, there is also a need to protect people from cyber bullying.
Kazako said government has made progress in the process of improving digital rights in the country through installation of telecommunication devices in schools, and hospitals across the country.
“In order for a country to develop, it needs good digital platform and as government, we are making sure that there should be a good network coverage,” said the minister.
On his part, Charles Kajoloweka Executive Director for Youths and Society, hailed government for making pisitive strides to promote digital rights.
Senior Lecture in Media and Communication Studies at University of Malawi, Chancellor College, Jimmy Kainja expressed worry that only a few people have access to data in the country.
” Forty – six percentage of people in the country do not know the use of internet and this is very worrisome development,” he said
The discusion drew participants from Our office, Malawi Communication Authority (MACRA) and Minister of Information.