The Government has unveiled a new set of strategic priorities aimed at accelerating the growth of Tanzania’s digital economy, with a strong focus on creating jobs, improving public services, and expanding access to technology across the country in the 2026/27 financial year.
Presenting the Ministry of Information, Communications and Information Technology budget in Parliament in Dodoma on April 30, 2026, the Minister, Angellah Kairuki, said the government is determined to ensure that every citizen benefits from ongoing digital transformation efforts.
She said the ministry has identified eight key priority areas that will guide implementation in the new fiscal year, all aimed at building a more inclusive, secure, and innovation-driven digital economy.
“The goal is to ensure that ICT becomes a real driver of economic growth and improves the daily lives of citizens through better services and opportunities,” she said.
Among the key priorities is the improvement and updating of ICT policies and regulations to keep pace with rapid global technological changes.
The government also plans to expand access to mobile and postal services, particularly in rural and underserved areas, to ensure no community is left behind.
A major focus has also been placed on promoting digital business and e-commerce, enabling more citizens, especially young people and small businesses, to access wider markets and grow their incomes through online platforms.
The government further plans to strengthen ICT infrastructure across the country, including broadband connectivity and data systems, as part of efforts to support a strong and competitive digital economy.
Cybersecurity has also been identified as a key national priority. The government says it will strengthen systems to protect citizens, businesses, and public institutions from increasing cyber threats.
At the same time, special attention will be given to supporting innovation and startups, particularly youth-led technology companies, by improving access to innovation hubs and business development opportunities.
“Supporting startups and innovators is central to our vision of building a digital economy that creates jobs and empowers young people,” said Minister Kairuki.
The ministry also plans to invest in ICT and space technology development, while increasing public awareness on safe and responsible use of digital technologies in daily life.
In terms of reforms, the government will advance the development of a Space Policy and finalize the Addressing System Law, which is expected to improve identification of locations and make it easier for citizens to access services such as delivery, emergency response, and public administration.
The communications sector will also see expansion of mobile and radio coverage to unprofitable areas, ensuring that citizens in remote regions are not excluded from communication services. Postal services will also be improved to increase efficiency and reach.
The government will continue implementing the Cubesat training satellite project, which aims to build national skills in space science and technology, especially among young professionals and students.
On infrastructure, the ministry will strengthen the National ICT Broadband Backbone and data centers, while rolling out the National Broadband Strategy and the ICT Infrastructure Master Plan (2026–2036), which are expected to improve internet access and digital service delivery nationwide.
To further accelerate digital transformation, the government will launch a National Digital Transformation Programme, establish seven innovation hubs across the country, and support the export of locally developed ICT solutions to international markets.
These initiatives are expected to make digital services more accessible, create new employment opportunities for young people, and position Tanzania as a competitive and inclusive digital economy in the region.
