For example locals down Mulanje Mountain and in Mulanje-Mozambique border areas have been worrying over poor radio reception and they say they are deprived of much needed information.

Dickens Phamba who teaches at Thundu Primary School in Traditional Authority Njema told us people are marginalized when it comes to accessing information especially now when everyone has to access accurate information on COVID-19 and how to prevent the pandemic.

“The only radio station which is audible in this area is Thumbini radio of Villa-Milanje in Mozambique, so we ask responsible department to address this challenge so that we access important information as is the case with fellow citizens in other areas,” said Phamba.

Communications Manager for the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) Clara Ngwira acknowledged the problem which she attributed to far distancing of transmitters.

“MACRA through Universal Service Fund project will by the end of this year roll out installation of transmitters in all affected areas and I hope next year all affected will be accessing broadcasting services,” said Ngwira

She did not disclose the number of transmitters to be installed saying that will be known after assessing affected areas.