Key Business Points

• Foreign exchange shortages may slow telecom upgrades, so businesses should plan for possible network delays and higher service costs.
• Reliable connectivity remains essential for growth, especially for mobile money, online sales, customer service and rural market access.
• ICT suppliers and entrepreneurs can find opportunities in local support, maintenance, call centre services and backup systems.

Integrated mobile network and ICT services provider TNM has identified foreign exchange shortages as one of the main challenges slowing investment in network infrastructure expansion.

TNM Chief Executive Officer Michel Herbert raised the issue when the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority, Macra, Board of Directors toured the company’s call centre in Limbe, Blantyre City. His comments point to a wider concern for Malawi’s business sector, where telecom services now support daily trade, banking, transport, agriculture and customer communication.

For many companies, especially mabizinesi ang’onoang’ono, stable mobile networks are no longer a luxury. They help businesses receive payments, reach customers, manage orders and operate beyond one physical location. When network expansion slows, businesses may face weaker coverage, slower internet services and limited access to digital tools.

The foreign exchange challenge matters because telecom operators often need imported equipment, spare parts and technology to expand and improve their networks. When companies cannot easily access foreign currency, planned investments may take longer. This can affect not only TNM, but also customers who depend on fast and reliable communication for bizinesi and malonda.

The issue also highlights how Malawi’s wider economic pressures are affecting key sectors. Limited foreign exchange availability has been a concern for manufacturers, retailers, transport operators and farmers who rely on imported inputs. In telecoms, the impact can be felt directly by consumers and businesses through service quality and network coverage.

For entrepreneurs, the message is practical. Businesses should not depend on one communication channel only. They should keep customer records organised, prepare backup payment options and invest in tools that help them continue operating when services are disrupted.

At the same time, the challenge creates openings for local service providers. Companies that can offer technical support, equipment maintenance, solar backup systems, call centre solutions and affordable digital services may benefit as operators and businesses look for ways to reduce costs and improve reliability.

TNM’s remarks to Macra show that connectivity is a business growth issue, not just a telecom matter. For Malawi to support stronger investment, faster digital services and wider market access, the country will need stable foreign exchange supply and continued cooperation between regulators, operators and local businesses.

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