Malawi's telecom regulator backs Airtel amid rising attacks on internet cables across the country. The Communications Regulatory Authority says criminals target fiber networks that connect cities and towns. Officials call the damage deliberate sabotage that hurts economic growth. Zamdziko Mankhamba from the regulator spoke to reporters about the crisis. He said all citizens must help protect these vital communication systems.
Airtel operates more than 2,000 kilometers of fiber cables throughout Malawi. The company reports coordinated cuts happening at the same time across different areas. These attacks damage services that hospitals, schools and businesses need daily. Mobile money transfers and internet work stop when cables break. Network Director Mphatso Manda says the sabotage affects every person who uses phones or computers.
The phone company asks people to call a free number if they see suspicious activity near cables. Airtel offers money to anyone who provides information about the attackers. The regulator plans to work with radio stations and newspapers on education campaigns. Officials want citizens to learn how important these networks are for development. Both organizations treat internet access as essential infrastructure that communities must guard together.
Airtel operates more than 2,000 kilometers of fiber cables throughout Malawi. The company reports coordinated cuts happening at the same time across different areas. These attacks damage services that hospitals, schools and businesses need daily. Mobile money transfers and internet work stop when cables break. Network Director Mphatso Manda says the sabotage affects every person who uses phones or computers.
The phone company asks people to call a free number if they see suspicious activity near cables. Airtel offers money to anyone who provides information about the attackers. The regulator plans to work with radio stations and newspapers on education campaigns. Officials want citizens to learn how important these networks are for development. Both organizations treat internet access as essential infrastructure that communities must guard together.
