Tanzania has expanded its digital infrastructure following the inauguration of 758 telecommunications towers by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, in a move aimed at accelerating digital transformation and widening access to connectivity across the country.
The government also recognised telecom operators, including Airtel Tanzania, Vodacom Tanzania, Yas, TTCL and Halotel, for their role in expanding digital services and strengthening national connectivity during a ceremony held in Dodoma.
Airtel Tanzania managing director Charles Kamoto received recognition on behalf of the company, alongside other operators honoured for their contribution to the country’s digital agenda.
President Samia said the rollout of the infrastructure has improved or extended connectivity to about 8.5 million people across 1,400 villages, marking progress in efforts to close the digital gap.
She said communication is now a basic service that enables access to opportunities, noting that the government will continue investing in the ICT sector under its long-term development plans, including Vision 2050 and the ruling party’s 2025 manifesto, which prioritise a digital economy.
The President said further efforts will focus on expanding broadband services to rural and underserved areas, while also supporting youth innovation, digital startups and the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Digital Technology in Dodoma.
Out of the 758 towers, Airtel Tanzania constructed 169 under a public-private partnership arrangement. The Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF) contributed about Sh126 billion to support rollout in areas that are not commercially viable.
Mr Kamoto said the project reflects the role of collaboration between the government and private sector in expanding connectivity.
He said the towers will support access to services for different groups, including farmers, students and small businesses, by linking them to the digital economy.
According to him, Airtel Tanzania currently operates more than 3,700 network sites nationwide, all enabled with 4G services, while 5G rollout is ongoing in selected regions. The company has also laid over 3,700 kilometres of fibre optic infrastructure.
He added that more than 23 million Tanzanians are connected through Airtel services, indicating growth in digital adoption.
Company data shows that between 2021 and 2025, Airtel Tanzania invested $316 million (about Sh806 billion) in infrastructure, paid around Sh1.69 trillion in taxes and regulatory fees, and returned about Sh289 billion in dividends to the government.
President Samia said the government’s move to take over the national communication backbone is intended to strengthen coordination and oversight of key ICT infrastructure as the country advances its digital economy.
She directed the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology to ensure broadband services reach grassroots communities, including villages and hamlets, and stressed the need to protect telecommunications infrastructure while maintaining national standards.
The recognition of telecom operators highlights the growing role of partnerships between the public and private sectors in expanding connectivity, improving financial inclusion and supporting Tanzania’s ambition to become a regional digital hub.
