The Chief Executive Officer of the Universal Communication Fund (UCSAF), Engineer Peter MwasyalandaThe Chief Executive Officer of the Universal Communication Services Access Fund (UCSAF), Engineer Peter Mwasyalanda, has called on residents of Msolokelo Village in Pemba Ward, Mvomero District, to use mobile networks effectively to boost their economic, educational, and social well-being.
Engineer Mwasyalanda made the remarks yesterday during the official launch of a new communication tower in the village, a project implemented by the Government in partnership with mobile operator Vodacom. The tower fulfills a promise made by the Government on December 3 last year.
The CEO explained that the pledge followed a visit by the Minister of Communications, Jerry Slaa, and UCSAF experts, who witnessed firsthand the severe network challenges in the village. Residents previously had to gather at a single spot, nicknamed “Mawasiliano” (Communication), to access mobile services.
“The sixth-phase Government delivers on its promises. Even before Tanzania had widespread mobile services, the Government listened to your concerns. Today, young people in the village are using smartphones, thanks to the new tower that went live in August,” said Engineer Mwasyalanda.
He added that 758 towers have already been constructed in areas with poor network coverage, with the Government committed to extending services to all underserved regions.
The UCSAF CEO urged citizens to leverage mobile networks to access market information, track agricultural input prices, and connect with buyers or service providers digitally, highlighting that these tools can save time and boost productivity.
Village Chairman Hamis Gebo described the tower as a “lifeline” for residents. Previously, many public servants assigned to the village requested transfers due to the lack of communication, which isolated the community.
“Msolokelo felt cut off from the world, but today we are connected. We thank our President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, for responding to our plea swiftly. She truly cares about the lives of Tanzanians,” said Gebo.
Residents recalled the difficulties they faced, including climbing hills or even trees to access signals, often at great risk.
Adam Mohamed highlighted the dangers during emergencies such as night-time childbirth, noting that immediate help was often impossible.
“Now, we can make calls anytime. We no longer have to risk our lives to get mobile signals. We are grateful to the Government for this improvement,” he said.
Baraka Eliezer, UCSAF Eastern Zone Manager, said the Minister’s December 3, 2024, visit revealed the village’s critical network challenges. With the tower now operational, residents can use previously inactive mobile phones.
Msolokelo Village has around 16,801 residents. Neighboring Gonja Village still faces similar communication challenges and awaits improved mobile network services.