The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to digital inclusion, emphasizing the role of women and youth in driving innovation, employment, and national self-reliance.
Speaking on January 19, 2026, at the opening of the 9th Annual ICT Conference (TAIC 2026) in Dar es Salaam, Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Angellah Jasmine Mbelwa Kairuki (MP), expressed delight that the forum dedicated a day to women in ICT.
She said this demonstrates the Government’s determination to ensure women and girls fully participate in digital transformation and technological innovation.
“Women have a critical role in advancing ICT, leading digital institutions, and creating solutions that generate positive social impact,” said Minister Kairuki.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of youth in the digital economy, noting that ICT startups provide opportunities for self-employment and innovation.
“The Government aims to recognize and support this group to develop their talents and expand their impact,” she added.
Minister Kairuki outlined key steps the Government is taking to ensure effective digital transformation, including strengthening the registration and development of ICT professionals, supporting innovative startups, and ensuring public and private institutions share ICT data with the Ministry for system interoperability.
She also urged content creators and innovators to use emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), responsibly, in line with national values.
The Ministry has prepared an AI strategy and usage guidelines to safeguard ethics while promoting innovation.
The TAIC 2026 theme, “Digital Transformation Driving Social Impact and Technological Innovation for a Successful, Just, Inclusive, and Self-Reliant Nation,” aligns with Tanzania’s 2050 National Development Vision, which emphasizes digital technologies as tools for social inclusion, sustainable innovation, and economic independence.
To expand access, the Government has invested in ICT infrastructure, completing 758 communication towers by December 2025, ensuring that digital services reach communities across the country and every Tanzanian can fully participate in the digital economy.