Staying connected in Malawi is easy and affordable with local prepaid SIM cards. The country has two main mobile operators — Airtel Malawi and Telekom Networks Malawi (TNM) — both offering nationwide voice and data services with 2G, 3G, and growing 4G coverage.
This detailed, SEO-optimized guide covers everything travelers need: prices, plans, activation codes, coverage, eSIM options, roaming, and more.
Basics Information
- Country code: +265
- Main operators: Airtel Malawi & TNM
- Network types: 2G / 3G / 4G LTE
- SIM registration: Mandatory
- Best for tourists: Prepaid data bundles
Mobile coverage is widespread, especially in cities like Lilongwe, Blantyre, and Mzuzu, though speeds can vary in rural areas.
Availability
Prepaid SIM cards are widely available across Malawi:
- Airports (sometimes limited availability)
- Official operator stores
- Authorized dealers
- Electronics shops
- Street vendors
SIMs are inexpensive and commonly sold nationwide.
Where to Buy
Best places for tourists:
- Official operator stores (recommended for registration)
- Shopping malls
- City centers
- Mobile phone shops
Avoid buying from unofficial vendors unless they can register your SIM.
Frequencies
| Operator | 2G (GSM) | 3G (UMTS) | 4G/LTE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airtel Malawi | 900 MHz | 2100 MHz | 1800 / 2300 MHz |
| TNM | 900 MHz | 2100 MHz | 800 / 1800 / 2600 MHz |
Coverage & Speed
| Operator | Coverage | Typical Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airtel Malawi | Nationwide | Moderate–Fast | Market leader |
| TNM | Nationwide | Moderate | Strong rural presence |
Both networks cover most populated areas, but connectivity may be inconsistent in remote regions.
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | Airtel Malawi | TNM |
|---|---|---|
| Market share | Largest | Second largest |
| SIM price | ~500 MWK | ~500 MWK |
| 4G availability | Yes | Yes |
| Coverage | Very good | Very good |
| Data pricing | Competitive | Slightly higher |
Biometric User Registration
SIM registration is mandatory.
Required documents:
- Passport (tourists)
- National ID / Driver’s license (locals)
- Refugee ID (if applicable)
Unregistered SIMs are deactivated by regulation.
Device Registration
Currently, Malawi does not require IMEI device registration for normal usage. Any unlocked phone will work.
SIM Card Price
Typical starter pack cost:
- ≈ 500 MWK (about US$0.70)
- Often includes small starter credit or data
Top-Up Methods
Recharge options include:
- Scratch vouchers
- Mobile money (Airtel Money / TNM Mpamba)
- Bank apps
- Retail shops
- Operator apps
- USSD recharge codes
Voucher values range from about 50 MWK to 5000 MWK.
Airtel Malawi
Airtel Prepaid Data Add-Ons
Daily Bundles
| Price (MWK) | Data | Activation |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 15 MB | *301100# |
| 150 | 30 MB | *301101# |
| 500 | 175 MB | *301128# |
Weekly Bundles
| Price | Data | Activation |
|---|---|---|
| 300 | 50 MB | *301110# |
| 600 | 150 MB | *301130# |
| 1000 | 300 MB | *301131# |
| 1800 | 1 GB | *301111# |
Monthly Bundles
| Price | Data | Activation |
|---|---|---|
| 3500 | 1.2 GB | *301120# |
| 5000 | 2 GB | *301121# |
| 7000 | 3.5 GB | *301132# |
| 10,500 | 6 GB | *301123# |
| 15,500 | 10 GB | *301124# |
| 19,000 | 15 GB | *301125# |
| 40,000 | 40 GB | *301126# |
TNM (Telekom Networks Malawi)
TNM Prepaid Data Add-Ons
Daily Bundles
| Price | Data | Activation |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 15 MB | *2007# |
| 150 | 30 MB | *2009# |
| 1000 | 1 GB | *2005# |
Weekly Bundles
| Price | Data | Activation |
|---|---|---|
| 600 | 175 MB | *20010# |
| 1200 | 140 MB | *20044# |
| 2500 | 1 GB | *20055# |
Monthly Bundles
| Price | Data | Activation |
|---|---|---|
| 3500 | 1 GB | *20012# |
| 5000 | 2 GB | *20013# |
| 8000 | 4 GB | *20014# |
| 15,500 | 10 GB | *20016# |
| 30,000 | 20 GB | *20017# |
Airtel Madagascar (Important Clarification)
Airtel Madagascar operates in Madagascar — not Malawi. If you meant Airtel Malawi, the plans above apply. If you want Madagascar details, ask and I’ll provide a separate guide.
How to Check Remaining Balance
Airtel Malawi
- Data balance: *304#
- Main balance: *121# (may vary)
TNM
- Main balance: #123#
- Recharge: 111VoucherCode#
Official Websites
- Airtel Malawi — https://www.airtel.mw
- TNM — https://www.tnm.co.mw
Apps
(Available via Google Play and App Store)
How to Check the SIM Number
Typical methods:
- Dial USSD code (varies by operator)
- Check SIM packaging
- Use phone settings
- Call another phone
Tourist SIM
Malawi does not widely market dedicated tourist SIM packages. Visitors typically buy regular prepaid SIMs with passport registration.
Roaming Data
International roaming is available but expensive. Using a local SIM or eSIM is far cheaper.
Digital eSIM Providers
If your phone supports eSIM, alternatives include:
- Airalo
- GigSky
- Nomad
- Holafly
eSIMs connect to local networks without physical SIM cards.
Other Options
- Portable Wi-Fi routers
- Hotel Wi-Fi
- Satellite internet (limited availability)
Activation
SIM activation usually occurs immediately after registration. In some cases, it may take a few minutes to a few hours.
Helpline Numbers
| Operator | Customer Care |
|---|---|
| Airtel Malawi | 121 |
| TNM | 123 |
Conclusion
Buying a prepaid SIM card in Malawi is simple, cheap, and highly recommended for travelers. With nationwide coverage, affordable data bundles, and quick registration, both Airtel Malawi and TNM offer reliable connectivity for navigation, social media, and communication.
Best choice overall: Airtel Malawi (cheaper data, strong urban coverage)
Best alternative: TNM (solid nationwide presence