This morning the Muuni Team was meeting representatives of various academic institutions at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe to acquaint them with the Fund’s initiative. The Fund aims at transforming the Nation through the financing of research and many other unique innovations that may emanate from Malawians. The function was presided over by the MACRA board chairperson, Dr. Stanely Khaila who encouraged participants to utilize the MUUNI Fund as an answer to various research programs they have in their institutions.

“Today we found it important to engage with you so that we can find ways on how this fund can serve you, as we want Malawi to find its own ICT solutions through the production of localized software and other ICT products which will rely on well-researched topics by education institutions.” Said Khaila.

The function received an overwhelming response from the interface meeting where participants assured the Muuni Team of their readiness to tap from the Fund and also requested that the setting up of the fund is sped up so that yield from the start it. The function attracted University vice-chancellors and registrars from institutions of higher learning across the country.

MACRA has pumped an initial seed of K350 million into the fund and awaits other investors and well-wishers to add so that the objective of the fund is realized.

According to the Communications Act, section 6(2)(g) MACRA is required to promote research and development in communications services. As such this project is supported by out of the pillars of its strategic plan for the 2022-2027 period which is on ICT development and innovation.

MACRA has pumped an initial seed of K350 million into the fund and awaits other investors and well-wishers to add so that the objective of the fund is realized. The Muuni Fund is set to be officially launched in April 2023; today’s interface was important since education institutions are critical in the research component of the fund.