As part of the digital agenda drive we took the digital rights discourse to the University of Malawi. Head of Computing department Dr Kondwani Munthali representing the deputy vice chancellor for the stated the university is the hub of academic freedom where exchange of ideas is the norm making is the right platform for the Authority to hold the timely discussions on digital rights in the information era.
During the open discussions the MACRA DG Daud Suleman dispelled myths pertaining the digital space, shading more light on the regulatory tools in which MACRA is implementing to ensure a safe and secure digital environment for all.
Of particular interest is the trend analysis platform for tracking misinformation and disinformation. Suleman stated that the system is being implemented to assure quality of service for ICT users, a means of executing the consumer protection mandate of MACRA and enhancing the consumer experience of ICT users in Malawi. The discourse was fruitful with the university of Malawi students engaging highly with the MACRA DG on issues of mobile money fraud, digital rights and the effective implementation of the versions laws pertaining the cyber space and cyber crimes.
Suleman also hightailed that the Authority is currently developing the Cyber Crimes Bill which will tackle among others the issues of abuse of minorities of digital spaces. This came as a response to a question on what MACRA is doing on the rampant online harassment minorities face on digital platforms.
