The newly appointed Universal Service Fund (USF) Committee has officially commenced its three-year term after taking the oath of secrecy and participating in an orientation session on the Fund’s mandate and operations.
The Committee comprises representatives from the telecommunications, postal, broadcasting, and consumer rights sectors, bringing together diverse expertise to provide strategic oversight in advancing universal access to communication services and digital inclusion across Malawi.
The Committee members are:
- Mr. Mphatso Manda – Chairperson
- Mrs. Mercy Kacheche – Member
- Mr. Steven Kapoloma – Member
- Mrs. Emma Sephani – Member
- Mrs. Kuminyanga Gomani – Member
Following the swearing-in ceremony, the USF Secretariat conducted an orientation session to familiarise the Committee with the Fund’s mandate, strategic priorities, governance framework, and ongoing initiatives.
Opening the session, MACRA Director of Finance, Mphatso Phiri, congratulated the Committee on its appointment and encouraged members to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, objectivity, and commitment.
Phiri noted that the Committee’s appointment reflects the confidence placed in its members’ experience and ability to contribute meaningfully to expanding access to communication services, while ensuring that the Fund delivers measurable impact and responds to the evolving needs of Malawi’s communications sector.
Speaking on behalf of the Committee, Chairperson Mphatso Manda underscored the importance of strong collaboration between the Committee and the USF Secretariat.
Manda emphasised that close collaboration between the Committee and the USF Secretariat will be critical to fulfilling the Fund’s mandate of expanding digital inclusion and improving access to communication services for all Malawians.
The appointment of the new Committee marks an important step in strengthening the governance of the USF as it continues to support initiatives that bridge the digital divide and promote equitable access to ICT services across the country.
