Backup data centre boosts continuity at Malawi Revenue Authority

The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) says recent investments in digital resilience and upgraded customs technology are beginning to reduce service interruptions and strengthen revenue collection, as the agency continues modernising its operations.

Speaking this week, MRA director of information and communication technology Charles Fodya said the authority’s secondary data centre — which also functions as a disaster‑recovery site — has become central to maintaining continuity during system failures.

He described the facility as a practical safeguard that allows the tax authority to protect taxpayer records and keep services running even when primary systems experience challenges.

His comments were echoed by deputy director for infrastructure Oseya Phiri, who said new uninterruptible power supply systems have been installed at several border and inland stations, including Nayuchi, Muloza, Billiwiri, Nsanje, Chiponde, Blantyre and Liwonde.

The upgrades, funded through the World Bank, are intended to stabilise operations during load‑shedding and reduce the risk of equipment damage.

At Bakili Muluzi International Airport, customs station manager Pauline Chagonapanja said improvements to the Automated System for Customs Data (Asycuda) have already reduced queues and processing delays.

She said the upgraded platform has improved the accuracy of duty and tax calculations, contributing to more reliable revenue collection.

The Asycuda modernisation is part of the Southern Africa Trade and Connectivity Project, a six‑year, $150 million World Bank‑supported programme running until 2027.

The initiative aims to streamline border processes, enhance regional trade efficiency and strengthen digital infrastructure across participating countries.

MRA officials say the upgrades are not a complete solution but represent a significant step toward building a more resilient, predictable and technology‑driven revenue system.