Telekom Networks Malawi (TNM) officially launched its 5G network in Lilongwe on Friday, July 25, 2025, marking Malawi’s first commercial rollout of fifth-generation mobile technology.
The launch event occurred at the Bingu International Convention Centre, where TNM’s Chief Technical Officer, Lloyd Gowera, announced the start of this new era for Malawian connectivity.
Lilongwe embraces TNM’s high-speed 5G network
TNM’s 5G network introduction in Lilongwe follows extensive preparations, including a $5 million investment over two years to modernise its core network infrastructure.
This upgrade involved partnering with Huawei to deploy 5G base stations capable of delivering internet speeds up to 600 Mbps with 50 MHz spectrum and potentially reaching 1.2 Gbps with 100 MHz spectrum.
The pilot 5G service was initially tested in Lilongwe and Blantyre, with plans to expand to Mzuzu and Zomba soon. Customers in these areas can now enjoy markedly improved mobile data speeds and reliability.
TNM CEO Michel Hebert emphasised the company’s heritage of pioneering advancements, stating, “We are excited to be the first in Malawi to bring 5G network services, just like we were the first to launch 2G, 3 G, and 4G networks.”
Beyond faster internet, TNM envisions 5G enabling new technology-driven sectors in Malawi. Gowera highlighted how the network will support mission-critical communications and massive Internet of Things (IoT) applications, such as smart agriculture, automated mining, and IoT logistics, boosting Malawi’s digital economy.
This launch positions TNM as Malawi’s leading innovator in mobile broadband, serving 1.6 million subscribers with around 42 per cent market share.
The move follows regulatory approval from the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), making Malawi one of the African countries embracing the next generation of connectivity.
With 5G now live in Lilongwe, Malawians can expect a leap in network speed and capacity to impact homes, businesses, and technology solutions nationwide. TNM continues its mission to expand coverage and explore new uses for 5G technology in the coming months.