The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has announced plans to roll out a SIM card and mobile phone re-registration exercise aimed at addressing cases of mobile money fraud.
MACRA’s Director General, Daud Suleman, disclosed the initiative during a discussion on digital rights, laws, technology, and myths at the University of Malawi (UNIMA) in Zomba.
Suleman explained that, unlike the previous registration exercise that required passports or letters from traditional leaders, the new process will use National Identity Cards.
He said this change aims to streamline the process and ensure a more accurate registration system.
Suleman added that the new regulations, which are awaiting approval by Parliament, will create a safer and more stable digital environment by strengthening the “Know Your Customer” (KYC) framework.
Dr. Kondwani Munthali, Head of the Computing Department at UNIMA, emphasized that the university has developed policies and guidelines to enhance cybersecurity and promote digital rights among students and faculty.
Nohakera Khanje, a Bachelor of Arts student in Media for Development, noted that the lecture deepened her understanding of cyber laws and security.
“The discussion has helped me better understand how to use technology legally and how to address cyber threats,” she said.
