Malawi electoral commission embraces technology, 6,500 devices to transform September 2025 elections

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has announced the adoption of Electoral Management Devices (EMDs) for the upcoming general elections scheduled for September 2025.

This initiative aims to streamline various electoral processes, ensuring a more efficient and transparent voting experience for Malawians.

MEC spokesperson Sangwani Mwafulirwa revealed that the commission has procured a total of 6,500 EMDs from Smartmatic International Holding B.V., a technology company based in the Netherlands.

“The introduction of EMDs is part of the strategy of the MEC to enhance efficiency in electoral processes during the upcoming general elections,” Mwafulirwa stated.

The new technology will replace the Biometric Voter Registration system that was utilized during the 2019 general elections and the subsequent 2020 presidential election re-run. The EMDs are expected to play a vital role in conducting voter registration, managing the transfer of voters, and inspecting the voters’ register—key components for ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

As the MEC prepares for this significant technological upgrade, the move reflects a commitment to modernizing electoral management and improving the overall democratic experience in Malawi.

The implementation of EMDs marks a crucial development in the country’s electoral landscape, paving the way for more reliable and effective elections in the future.