By Patience Kapinda
The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has officially approved the phasing out of physical airtime and data scratch cards, following in the footsteps of several countries that have already made the switch.
This decision comes after stakeholder consultations and is part of a government initiative to promote digital transactions and limit cash usage. By eliminating scratch cards, Malawi aims to save on foreign exchange used to import these physical airtime cards.
In a letter addressed to all mobile companies in the country, MACRA emphasized the importance of transitioning to digital methods for topping up phones and accessing data.
This move aligns with global trends toward digitalization and reflects the growing reliance on technology for financial transactions.
The joint press briefing scheduled for April 30, 2024, at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe will provide further details about the transition.
During this briefing, mobile service providers will formally communicate the specifics of the change, ensuring that no one is left without phone credit during the switch.
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