By Alfred Zacharia
More than 29 million Tanzanians living in remote and rural areas are set to benefit from expanded access to communication services, thanks to a new project by the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF).
Speaking in Dar es Salaam during a session with media editors, UCSAF Director General Engineer Peter Mwasalyanda said the government is committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.
“We have signed agreements to extend communication services to 1,974 wards covering 5,111 villages. This will benefit a total population of over 29 million people,” said Engineer Mwasalyanda.
The session was organized by the Office of the Treasury Registrar to highlight how government institutions are serving citizens.
Engineer Mwasalyanda noted that 2,152 communication towers will be built in the new areas to improve network coverage and reduce digital gaps.
He described the project as a lifeline for many people who currently live without mobile or internet services.
“When people in rural areas can access communication, it opens up opportunities for education, business, health, and security,” he said.
Engineer Mwasalyanda also highlighted the progress made so far.
“We have already reached 1,661 wards and 4,570 villages, covering more than 25 million people. So far, 1,810 towers have been built and are fully operational,” he said.
For many Tanzanians in remote villages, the arrival of mobile towers has changed their lives. In a small village in Rukwa Region, for example, a teacher said mobile coverage helped his students get educational materials through online platforms.
“Before, we had to walk for hours just to find a signal. Now we can learn, talk to family, and even do business online,” he said.
Engineer Mwasalyanda added that in May 2023, UCSAF signed more agreements with telecom providers to reach more rural communities.
“Under the new phase, we will build 758 towers to cover 713 wards in 127 districts across 26 regions,” he said.
About 8.5 million more people will benefit, according to him.
He said the government has set aside TZS 126 billion in subsidies to support the project.
In another major step, UCSAF has completed the upgrade of 304 existing towers from 2G to 3G and 4G networks.
“This upgrade cost about TZS 5.5 billion and has already been completed,” he confirmed.
Engineer Mwasalyanda emphasized that these efforts are part of the government’s wider vision.
“Our mission is clear—every Tanzanian, no matter where they live, deserves access to modern and reliable communication services,” he said.
As mobile towers rise in once-isolated villages, so does hope. Farmers can now check market prices, families can stay connected, and young people can access online opportunities. For many, it’s not just about making a call, it’s about changing their lives.
