The prized Bank of the nation, The Malawi Stock Exchange listed National Bank of Malawi (NBM) has challenged youth innovators to take the lead in driving digital transformation in the country, Takondwa Nyirenda reports.
The call was made by NBM plc Head of Corporate Banking Division, William Chatsala at the launch of the 2025 ICT Association of Malawi (ICTAM) Annual Conference in Mangochi on Tuesday evening.
Ahead of the launch, NBM plc invested K75.5 million to support the 2025 Innovation Jam and ICTAM Annual General Meeting (AGM), celebrating the innovation and resilience driving Malawi’s digital future.
Chatsala said the Bank’s contribution reflects its belief in ICTAM’s mission to advance digital innovation and promote emerging technologies.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the NBM plc’s strategy to deepen financial inclusion, expand digital payment solutions, and strengthen innovations that meet global standards.
“Malawi is part of that global movement, and our greatest opportunity lies in empowering local innovators to create local solutions for local challenges. ICTAM continues to nurture this ecosystem, and that is why National Bank stands firmly behind this organisation,” said Chatsala.
Chatsala added that the Bank joined the initiative to ensure promising ideas grow beyond concept stage.
“Our goal was clear: ensure promising ideas do not stop at concept stage, but move toward prototypes, commercialisation, and real impact. Today, we see that vision taking shape. Alumni are developing fintech tools, enterprise systems, e-commerce platforms, and community solutions that are already changing how Malawians live and work,” said Chatsala.
He further emphasised NBM plc’s commitment to strengthening support for the digital sector and urged Malawians to invest in empowering young innovators and building an inclusive nation.
In her speech, guest of honour at the event, the country’s Vice President Jane Ansah encouraged ICT professionals to uphold high standards of professionalism and ethics in shaping the country’s digital future.
ICTAM President Clarence Gama reiterated the association’s dedication to fostering innovation and ensuring that both rural and urban communities benefit from technological advancement.
Gama further commended companies like NBM plc for supporting innovation drives in the country.
This year’s ICTAM conference is being held under the theme ‘Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development: Advancing Malawi’s Digital Future’.
“our greatest opportunity lies in empowering local innovators to create local solutions for local challenges.”
William Chatsala
NBM Head of Corporate Banking Division
