Zanzibar, June 22, 2026 – Yas Fiber Tanzania will invest approximately TZS 300 billion over the next 20 years to help accelerate Zanzibar's digital transformation, expand access to high-speed broadband services and support long-term economic growth through a landmark Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement signed with the Zanzibar Communication Corporation & Ministry of Labour and Investment.
The initiative is expected to make high-speed fiber connectivity available to approximately 100,000 households across Unguja and Pemba within the first three years, significantly expanding digital access and strengthening the foundation for Zanzibar's transition into a modern, knowledge-based and digitally enabled economy.
The agreement marks a major milestone in efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure across the islands and improve access to reliable, affordable, high-speed internet services for households, businesses, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and government offices. It also supports Zanzibar's ambition to strengthen its position as a regional hub for innovation, investment and digital services.
Implemented under a Public-Private Partnership framework, the project combines the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar's vision of building a digitally connected economy with Yas Fiber's expertise in designing, financing, deploying, operating and commercializing Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) networks.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Hon. Mudrick Ramadhan Soraga, Minister for Communications, Information Technology and Innovation, said the partnership demonstrates Zanzibar's commitment to leveraging digital infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth, innovation and improved public service delivery.
"This partnership reflects the Government's commitment to accelerating digital transformation and ensuring that citizens, businesses and institutions have access to the infrastructure required to thrive in today's digital economy. High-speed broadband connectivity is a critical enabler of innovation, investment and inclusive growth, and this collaboration will help position Zanzibar as a leading digital economy in the region," said Hon. Soraga.
Also speaking during the event, Director General of ZICTIA, Eng. Shukuru Awadh Suleiman, said the agreement represents an important step towards strengthening the islands' digital infrastructure and expanding access to quality broadband services.
"This partnership will significantly accelerate the expansion of fiber connectivity across Zanzibar and bring quality broadband services closer to our people. It is a practical step towards building the digital infrastructure needed to support Zanzibar's future development," said Eng. Suleiman.
Yas Fiber Chief Executive Officer, Maxime Woimant said the investment reflects the company's broader commitment to supporting Tanzania's digital ambitions and creating opportunities through improved connectivity.
"This is one of the most significant digital infrastructure investments in Zanzibar's recent history. Through this partnership, we will expand access to world-class broadband services that enable businesses to grow, students to learn, institutions to innovate and communities to participate fully in the digital economy.
We see ourselves not only as an investor, but also as a long-term development partner committed to expanding opportunity through connectivity. We are proud to work alongside the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and ZICTIA in building the digital foundation that will support the islands' future growth, competitiveness and prosperity," said Woimant.
The project is expected to play a critical role in accelerating digital adoption, bridging the digital divide and unlocking new opportunities for economic participation across Zanzibar. Improved broadband access will support innovation, entrepreneurship, digital learning, e-government services and the delivery of modern healthcare solutions, while enhancing Zanzibar's attractiveness as a destination for investment, tourism and business growth.
The investment also contributes to broader efforts to advance digital inclusion and sustainable development by ensuring more communities can access the tools, services and opportunities needed to participate fully in the digital economy.
Under the agreement, Yas Fiber will be responsible for the design, financing, deployment, commercialisation, operation, and maintenance of the fiber network throughout the concession period. The Government of Zanzibar, through ZICTIA and relevant institutions, will facilitate rights-of-way, regulatory support and project oversight to ensure successful implementation.
Beyond infrastructure deployment, the partnership will also promote digital skills development, knowledge transfer and local capacity building, helping equip future generations with the capabilities needed to thrive in a technology-driven economy and supporting Zanzibar's long-term vision of becoming a leading digital economy in East Africa.
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