The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has requested Parliament to approve TZS 222.589 billion for the 2026/27 financial year, with the bulk of the funds directed toward development projects aimed at accelerating Tanzania’s digital transformation.
Presenting the budget estimates in Parliament in Dodoma on Thursday, April 30, 2026, Minister Angellah Kairuki said the proposed budget is designed to strengthen ICT infrastructure, expand digital services across the country, and support national development priorities in line with government directives and the 2025 CCM manifesto.
She said the budget reflects the government’s continued focus on building a modern digital economy where technology plays a central role in improving public services, boosting productivity, and enhancing economic growth.
Out of the total proposed budget, TZS 13.146 billion has been allocated for recurrent expenditure, equivalent to 5.9 percent.
This includes TZS 6.371 billion for salaries and TZS 6.774 billion for other operational costs of the ministry and its institutions.
The remaining TZS 209.443 billion, representing 94.1 percent of the total budget, has been set aside for development projects.
Of this amount, TZS 98.481 billion will be financed from domestic sources, while TZS 110.962 billion is expected from development partners.
Minister Kairuki said the development funds will be directed to key strategic ICT projects aimed at improving connectivity, expanding access, and strengthening the security of digital systems across the country.
Key priorities include the expansion of the National ICT Broadband Backbone, construction of communication towers in rural and underserved areas, upgrading government digital systems, and strengthening cybersecurity to protect users and national infrastructure from emerging threats.
The ministry will also continue implementing the National Digital Economy Strategy, which promotes wider use of ICT in sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and public administration to improve service delivery and efficiency.
According to the minister, these investments are expected to significantly improve internet access, particularly in rural communities, reduce the digital divide, and ensure more citizens benefit from reliable and affordable communication services.
She added that improved ICT infrastructure will also support innovation, create employment opportunities for young people, and attract more private sector investment into the digital economy.
Cybersecurity remains a key priority, with government efforts focused on safeguarding digital platforms, protecting personal data, and building trust in online services as internet usage continues to grow.
Minister Kairuki called on Members of Parliament to approve the proposed budget, saying it will enable the ministry to effectively implement its programmes and accelerate Tanzania’s transition into a competitive, technology-driven economy.
She reaffirmed the Sixth Phase Government’s commitment to making ICT a strong pillar of national development and improving the lives of citizens through better access to digital services and opportunities.
