By Sanenje Nkhani Mussa
NEYTECH solutions have challenged software developers in the country to use their resources and expertise in developing software products that provide innovative and locally-driven technology solutions that can help to address some of the challenges in the country.
NYTECH became the first Malawian company to develop social media software after they launched ‘Zatheka’, a social media platform in September 2022.
Speaking in an interview on Monday, NEYTECH solutions Director Kondwani Mushali said technology is key to the development saying Zatheka is dedicated to serve the needs of the local community as social media has the power to bring people together, foster connections and build communities.
“We want to create a platform that is not only user-friendly but also that offers a safe and inclusive space for everyone. A platform that is tailored to the needs of our local community in promoting economic development by providing local businesses with an affordable alternative of advertising on international social media platforms.
“Zatheka software provides local businesses with targeted advertising opportunities on the platform and helps them to reach their customers more effectively and efficiently by promoting local economic growth that can contribute to the overall development of Malawi hence helping our country to realize Malawi vision 2063 Agenda,” said Mushali.
Commenting on the development, President for Information Communication and Technology Association of Malawi (ICTAM), Clarence Gama said with the increase of Technology start-ups and Innovation Hubs focusing on software development, there is great potential to boost Information Communication Technology (ICT) industry and software development in the country.
“The coming in of Zatheka is one testimony of the capabilities of Malawians in the ICT industry to develop world-class solutions and the potential to put Malawi on the world stage,” said Gama.
Gama added that while the software development industry is still developing in Malawi, it is essential for the country to invest in education, IT infrastructures, and create favorable government policies to help the industry thrive.