Bharti Airtel Strengthen Investment In Malawi

By  Henry Ojelu

Management of Bhartiel Airtel says it has strengthened its investments in Malawi with over $25 million recently deployed for the development of 3G network and introduction of Airtel money in the country

CEO (International) and  Joint MD, Bharti Airtel, Manoj Kohli, disclosed this recently when he paid a courtesy call on the President of the Republic of Malawi, Mrs. Joyce Banda, to update the telecommunication company’s investments in the country. During the visit, Mr. Kohli outlined Airtel’s commitment to Malawi through a number of innovations, investments and continued human resource development.

Kohli who heads the African operations at Bharti Airtel also appreciated the government reforms in the telecom sector, citing the proposed converged licensing regime that is poised to enhance telecommunications connectivity within the region.

Kohli said: “Our objective is to provide our customers with innovative mobile services that will help fuel the economic and social development of Malawi. Our investment of $25 million in the development of the 3G network and introduction of Airtel Money are a clear demonstration of our commitment to deepen our network and bridge the digital divide.

“Airtel is committed to ensure that Airtel money services are within arm’s reach of the Malawian people. The platform allows consumers to send and receive money, directly pay their critical utility bills, provide access to their bank accounts and even top up their phones with air time.  The Airtel Money service will benefit the rural communities of Malawi as has been proved in neighbouring countries such as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.”

According to Kohli, the planned upgrade of Airtel’s High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) 3G network in Malawi will usher in a new era of unique life style enabling products.

“This is the latest and fastest wireless broadband technology, also being rolled out in Europe and the USA. It will contribute significantly towards meeting the growing demand for high speed internet and wireless entertainment for large Corporate, small and medium businesses and the Youth” he said.

Kohli further added: “Our commitment is a clear indication that government reforms and measures in the telecommunications sector will add impetus to the economy. Airtel Malawi is also backed by a professional team to support the drive. Airtel’s commitment to be one of the leading global telecommunications companies is underpinned by the development of local talent at all levels. To this end, Airtel’s leadership programme has seen four talented Malawians take up senior positions overseas to develop their professional skills within the organisation.”