The government is continuing to subsidise the construction of mobile communication towers in rural and underserved areas as part of efforts to expand network coverage and connect more Tanzanians to digital services.
The initiative is being implemented through the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF), which supports telecommunications companies to extend services to communities where commercial investment in network infrastructure may be limited.
UCSAF Northern Zone Manager Muhinda Iddy said the government had financed the construction of several communication towers through subsidies aimed at improving access to mobile services in rural and remote communities.
Speaking during a radio programme on Radio Five FM in Arusha, Mr Iddy outlined the number of towers supported through the fund and explained ongoing efforts to extend communication services to areas that remain underserved.
He also provided an update on the national telecommunications project currently under implementation, explaining its various stages and how it is expected to increase access to mobile communication services.
Improved network coverage is expected to help rural communities access information, communicate more easily and benefit from digital services, including mobile financial transactions and other online services.
UCSAF is also using radio and television programmes to inform the public about government interventions in the telecommunications sector and improve awareness of projects aimed at expanding access to communication services.