The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has stepped up efforts to educate the public on cybersecurity and safe internet usage, urging citizens to remain vigilant against online fraud, identity theft and other cyber-related threats as digital services continue to expand across the country.
Speaking during the ongoing Public Service Week exhibitions at Chinangali Park in Dodoma, ICT Officer Charles Liwongwe from the Ministry's Cybersecurity and Information Security Unit said increasing digital connectivity has created new opportunities for development, but has also exposed users to growing cybersecurity risks.
He said the ministry is committed to ensuring Tanzania's digital environment remains secure, reliable and trustworthy by strengthening information security systems and promoting public awareness on safe online practices.
“As more citizens embrace digital platforms and online services, it is important that they understand how to protect themselves from cybercriminals. Our role is not only to safeguard information systems but also to educate the public on responsible and secure internet use,” Liwongwe said.
According to him, the ministry has been providing continuous awareness programmes aimed at helping citizens identify online scams, avoid fraudulent schemes and understand the appropriate channels for reporting cyber incidents.
He encouraged visitors attending the exhibitions to stop by the ministry's booth to learn more about cybersecurity, digital safety and the range of technology-driven services available to the public.
The awareness campaign has attracted considerable interest from exhibition visitors, many of whom said the information shared had improved their understanding of online safety and digital services.
Peter Obogo, a resident of Dodoma, said the education provided at the booth had helped him understand how to recognize and respond to cyber threats.
“I have received suspicious messages in the past asking me to send money to unknown individuals. Without proper awareness, many people can easily become victims of such scams. The information I received here has taught me how to identify these schemes and report them appropriately,” he said.
Obogo called on fellow citizens to take advantage of the educational opportunities offered during the exhibition to enhance their digital literacy and protect themselves from online fraud.
Another visitor, Dayo Malando, said he had gained valuable knowledge about several digital services offered by the ministry, particularly the national addressing system.
He noted that while he had previously heard about residential address services, he had never fully understood their practical application until visiting the exhibition booth.
“The system is simple to use and helps citizens identify and access their residential addresses. Learning about its importance and how it supports service delivery has been very informative,” he said.
Malando commended the ministry for bringing essential digital services closer to the public and expressed hope that similar awareness campaigns would continue to reach more citizens across the country.
The ministry's participation in the Public Service Week exhibitions forms part of broader government efforts to promote digital transformation, strengthen cybersecurity awareness and empower citizens to use technology safely and effectively in their daily lives.
