MACRA Satisfied With FM Network Implementation
The FM network transition initiative began in December 2022 and took full effect this month.
LILONGWE, Malawi— The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has expressed satisfaction over the newly implemented FM networks across the country, writes Judgement Katika.
"This is a great milestone for the regulator regarding the granting of new licenses to over 150 new broadcasters," said MACRA Director General Daud Suleman during a media briefing Thursday on the initiative.
All radio stations across Malawi have now successfully switched over to the new network, Suleman noted.
"This will assist in having a scalable network and Malawians will have more choice on where to access news and entertainment on radio, as there will be significant growth of the sector and job creation," he said.
Suleman added that the implementation was a collaborative effort between MACRA and radio stations to address gaps identified in the process.
MACRA has also embarked on implementing two key regulatory systems, Suleman disclosed.
A revenue assurance system will help the regulator accurately account for revenue in the sector by ensuring correct billing of operators.
"This is a new dawn for radio in Malawi," Suleman said.
A central equipment identification registry will help fortify the space around mobile devices in the country by combating mobile fraud and ensuring stolen and fake devices cannot operate.
The FM network transition initiative began in December 2022 and took full effect this month.