MACRA Visits DHL Malawi to Strengthen Digital Economy, Courier Regulation and E-Commerce Growth

The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA)  Board, led by Chairperson Counsel Chancy Gondwe, has conducted a courtesy visit to DHL Malawi  in Lilongwe as part of its ongoing stakeholder engagement programme. The visit aimed to better understand the operations of key players in the communications and logistics sector and assess their role in supporting Malawi’s growing digital economy.

During the engagement, the MACRA Board highlighted the importance of a strong communications sector in enabling efficient business operations, digital trade, and the expansion of e-commerce services. MACRA Director General Mayamiko Nkoloma noted that digital infrastructure and reliable connectivity are essential foundations for businesses to operate effectively in an increasingly interconnected global environment.

Board Chairperson Chancy Gondwe emphasized that the communications sector remains a critical driver of economic growth, innovation, and improved service delivery. He explained that reliable connectivity allows companies such as DHL to coordinate logistics, track shipments in real time, communicate with customers, and facilitate international trade more efficiently.

DHL Malawi’s Country Operations Manager, Archiford Zhuwanginyu, raised concerns over the prevalence of illegal courier operations in the country, noting that such activities negatively impact the formal courier industry. In response, MACRA’s Acting Director of Postal Services, Burnet Namacha, reaffirmed that the courier sector is regulated under the Communications Act 2016, and that non-compliant operators will face enforcement action.

The engagement also highlighted the role of technology and automation in transforming the sector, with MACRA currently developing a Digital Postal Regulatory Compliance System aimed at improving service quality, enforcement, and efficiency within the courier and e-commerce ecosystem.