ADG’s vision for Macra

Mayamiko Nkoloma is a Malawian technology expert, innovator and public servant. He founded iMoSyS, a local startup that has grown into one of Malawi’s leading ICT companies. He has taught Telecommunications and Information Technology at MUBAS, contributing to the training of the next generation of ICT professionals.

He holds two Master’s degrees and is nearing completion of a PhD in Innovation and Development at MUST. His experience across academia, business and public service reflects a strong commitment to harnessing technology in support of Malawi’s development and inclusive growth. You are now Acting Director General for MACRA.

What is your vision? My vision is to see Macra positioned as a forward looking, agile and trusted regulator that actively enables Malawi’s digital economy. This means regulating not only to control, but to unlock opportunities ensuring that communications services are accessible, affordable, innovative and secure for all Malawians, while supporting industry growth and national development goals.

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How would you describe your leadership philosophy and how will it shape MACRA’s direction going forward? My leadership style is grounded in honesty, transparency, zero tolerance for corruption and a strong commitment to public service. I believe meaningful collaboration across the sector is essential to success, supported by empowered teams, evidence-based decision making and open stakeholder engagement.

This approach will guide MACRA towards fair and effective regulation while building trust and fostering a culture of integrity, innovation and good performance. What role do you see MACRA playing in driving Malawi’s digital transformation agenda? Access to a f f o r d a b l e and reliable communication services remains a national priority.

What strategies will you champion to improve c o n n e c t i v i t y across Malawi, especially in the und er s e r ved rural areas? K e y strategies i n c l u d e infrastructure sharing, targeted universal service interventions, efficient spectrum allocation and partnerships with government and development partners. We will continue to support projects aimed at connecting unserved and underserved areas, ensuring that rural communities are not left behind in the digital economy.

How does MACRA plan to support innovation in ICT, broadcasting and emerging technologies such as AI, financial technologies (fintech) and data driven industries? MACRA plans to support innovation by adopting flexible, innovation friendly regulation that allows new ideas in ICT, broadcasting and emerging technologies such as AI and fintech to grow safely. Beyond regulation, we will work with partners to expose innovators and startups to incubation programs where their ideas can be nurtured into market ready products that solve real problems.

This includes connecting them to experienced industry experts who can provide training in product development, business readiness and scaling. Through regulatory sandboxes, pilot programs and close engagement with innovators, academia and industry, MACRA will ensure regulation keeps pace with technology while encouraging creativity, investment and real impact. How will MACRA work with operators to ensure a harmonized ICT industry with affordable and quality services for consumers?

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