NEW YORK: The Malawi President, Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, addressed the UN Summit of the Future in New York on Saturday, emphasizing the importance of laying the foundation for a digital future for all. In his speech, President Chakwera stressed that the digital revolution is not just about advancements in technology, but about transforming societies, economies, and humanity as a whole.
“Today, we stand at a pivotal moment in history, a moment where the digital landscape is not just a realm of technology but a canvas upon which we can paint a brighter, more inclusive future for all. As we gather here, we must recognize that the digital revolution is not merely about advancements in technology; it is about the transformation of our societies, our economies, and, ultimately, our humanity”, the President said .
President Chakwera highlighted Malawi’s commitment to bridging the digital divide, recognizing it as an economic and social issue. He outlined the strategic plans for digital transformation in Malawi, including initiatives to expand digital infrastructure, enhance digital literacy, and foster an inclusive digital economy in alignment with the summit’s theme of “ensuring that no one is left behind” in the digital journey.
The President announced several initiatives that Malawi has launched with support from development partners, such as The Digital Malawi Project and the Last Mile Rural Connectivity Project, aimed at expanding internet connectivity and providing equitable access to digital technologies. He also highlighted the implementation of a Data Exchange Platform and an e-service platform to improve efficiency across government and ensure seamless access to services.
The Malawi leader raised a concern stating that: “Today, millions of people around the world remain disconnected – excluded from the benefits of the digital economy, education and healthcare. This is not just unfortunate. It is wrong. And it is dangerous”.
President Chakwera emphasized the importance of digital literacy for full participation in the digital economy, mentioning efforts to integrate digital literacy into national education curricula and provide training opportunities for all age groups. He also highlighted the role of technology hubs in training young people in coding, digital skills, and entrepreneurship to drive innovation and job creation in Malawi’s digital economy.
The President called for collaboration between governments, multi-lateral partners, private sectors, and civil society to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone has access to digital tools and the internet, regardless of their background or geographic location. He urged the global community to provide financial and technical support, as well as share knowledge, innovations, and best practices in the journey toward a digital future that is inclusive, equitable, and peaceful:
“As I said earlier, this divide is not merely a technological issue, it is a social justice issue. To build a peaceful future, we must ensure that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, geographic location, or background, has access to digital tools and the internet. This requires collaboration between governments and multi-lateral partners, private sectors, and civil society to invest in infrastructure, education and digital literacy. As we strive to bridge the digital divide, we call upon the global community to not only provide financial and technical support but also to share knowledge, innovations, and best practices. The journey toward a digital future must be a shared one, where no nation, no citizen, is left behind”, said President Chakwera.
In conclusion, President Chakwera emphasized that building a digital future for all is a collective endeavor that requires commitment, creativity, and compassion. He called for choosing the path of inclusion, equity, and peace in shaping a digital future that benefits all of humanity. Malawi stands ready to embrace the future, where digital transformation improves the lives of every Malawian and reflects the highest ideals of society.
