Malawi’s leading home-grown financial institution and commercial bankers, FDH Bank has donated MWK 15 million towards the upcoming ICT Innovation Awards being organised by the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), in a move aimed at promoting innovation and advancing the country’s digital economy.
Speaking during the cheque presentation on Wednesday in Lilongwe, FDH Bank Head of Corporate and Institutional Banking, Kawawa Nsapato, said the Bank’s support is driven by the belief that digital innovation holds the key to solving many of Malawi’s challenges.
“We believe that the future is digital. Many of the problems we face as a country can be addressed through innovation.
“These awards provide a platform for innovators who may lack support and recognition to showcase their ideas and contribute solutions to national challenges,” said Nsapato.
He added that the initiative aligns with the country’s long-term development agenda, including Vision 2063, and will help foster a culture of creativity and problem-solving among Malawians.
“As a local bank, it is important for us to support and nurture innovation across the country. There are many people with great ideas that can transform different sectors, and this platform allows them to be seen and heard,” he said.
Nsapato further noted that the awards provide a national platform for innovators from across districts to gain exposure and connect with wider audiences that can support their ideas.
Receiving the donation on behalf of MACRA, Director of Finance, Mphatso Phiri, described the contribution as timely, as preparations for the awards are at an advanced stage.
“We received over 200 applications and have shortlisted 20 finalists who will showcase their innovations during the awards ceremony next week.
“From these, two winners will be selected and awarded various prizes,” said Phiri.
She said the support from FDH Bank will help create an enabling environment for innovators to present their ideas not only to Malawi but also to a broader audience, increasing their chances of support and growth.
Phiri emphasised that the awards are part of MACRA’s mandate to promote research, development, and innovation in the ICT sector.
“These awards are about bringing out exceptional ideas and supporting individuals who have developed solutions that can contribute to national development. It is part of our responsibility to nurture such talent,” she said.
The ICT Innovation Awards are scheduled to take place on April 21 and 22, 2026 in Lilongwe and expected to provide a platform for emerging innovators to showcase solutions in areas such as technology, climate resilience, and efficiency improvement, contributing to the growth of Malawi’s digital economy.
“We believe that the future is digital.”
Kawawa Nsapato
FDH Bank Head of Corporate and Institutional Banking
