Research Article Open Access

Mobile Opportunities, Mobile Problems: Assessing Mobile Commerce Implementation Issues in Malawi

Abstract

The increased usage of mobile phones and the rapid developments in mobile communication technologies present a surge for m-commerce. While m-commerce has been implemented in many countries in both the developed and developing world, it remains an unexploited area in some African countries, including Malawi. This paper investigates the problems that Malawi could face in the implementation of m-commerce and the stakeholders to drive m-commerce implementation in the country. The research has established that banks, mobile phone operators and the central bank, among other institutions, are the key stakeholders to play a leading role in the implementation of m-commerce in Malawi. The paper has further identified a number of possible m-commerce applications in the country including m-banking, m-shopping and m-health. However, the implementation of these applications will face technical, business and policy problems. These have been discussed and analyzed. The results of the research are expected to help in directing the focus of researchers, policymakers, technical implementers, service providers and other stakeholders, as Malawi joins the race for mobile payment systems.

Edwin Saidi

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