TANZANIA BOOSTS DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY AS PRESIDENT SAMIA LAUNCHES 758 TELECOM TOWERS, AIRTEL HONOURED

President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, presents an appreciation award to Charles Kamoto, Managing Director of Airtel Tanzania, during the handover ceremony marking the completion of communication towers and the national fibre optic backbone infrastructure at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre in Dodoma.

Dodoma, 10 April 2026 - Tanzania has taken a major leap forward in its digital transformation journey, following the inauguration of 758 telecommunications towers by President Samia Suluhu Hassan—a milestone that underscores the country’s growing commitment to connectivity, inclusion, and innovation.

The landmark ceremony, held in Dodoma, not only marked the commissioning of critical infrastructure but also celebrated the collective efforts of telecom operators driving Tanzania’s digital agenda.

Expanding Access, Unlocking Opportunity

The newly launched towers have extended or enhanced network coverage to approximately 8.5 million citizens across 1,400 villages—many of them in previously underserved and rural areas. This expansion represents a significant stride toward bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to communication services.

“Communication today is not a luxury, but a bridge to opportunity,” President Samia noted, reinforcing the government’s vision to leverage technology as a catalyst for economic growth and social development.

Anchored in national priorities such as Vision 2050 and the CCM 2025 Manifesto, Tanzania’s digital push is increasingly focused on enabling job creation, boosting innovation, and fostering a knowledge-based economy.

Industry Players Recognised

During the event, the government honoured leading telecom operators for their role in expanding digital services and strengthening national connectivity. Among those recognised was Airtel Tanzania, whose Managing Director Charles Kamoto received the award on behalf of the company.

Other key players acknowledged included Vodacom Tanzania, Yas Tanzania, TTCL, and Halotel—all instrumental in advancing connectivity nationwide.

Power of Public-Private Partnerships

Out of the 758 towers commissioned, Airtel Tanzania constructed 169 under a public-private partnership framework, highlighting the effectiveness of collaboration between government and industry.

The Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF) played a pivotal role in this rollout, contributing approximately TZS 126 billion to facilitate deployment in commercially unviable areas—ensuring that no community is left behind.

“These towers are more than infrastructure—they are enablers of opportunity,” said Kamoto. “They connect farmers, students, entrepreneurs, and entire communities to the digital economy.”

Accelerating Digital Growth

Airtel Tanzania continues to scale its footprint, now operating over 3,700 network sites nationwide—all 4G-enabled—while steadily expanding 5G services in select regions. The company has also rolled out more than 3,700 kilometres of fibre optic infrastructure, further strengthening Tanzania’s digital backbone.

With over 23 million users connected through its network, Airtel’s growth reflects a broader national trend of rising digital adoption.

Between 2021 and 2025, the company invested USD 316 million (approximately TZS 806 billion) in infrastructure. It also contributed around TZS 1.69 trillion in taxes and regulatory fees and paid TZS 289 billion in dividends to the government—demonstrating its economic impact beyond connectivity.

Government’s Strategic Vision

President Samia emphasized that the government’s recent takeover of the national communication backbone will enhance coordination, efficiency, and oversight of strategic ICT infrastructure.

She directed the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology to accelerate broadband expansion to grassroots communities—including villages and hamlets—while also safeguarding telecommunications infrastructure and maintaining national standards.

In parallel, the government is investing in youth innovation, digital startups, and plans to establish a Centre of Excellence for Digital Technology in Dodoma—further positioning Tanzania as a hub for digital talent and entrepreneurship.

A Connected Future

The recognition of Airtel Tanzania and other telecom operators highlights the growing importance of public-private partnerships in shaping Tanzania’s digital future. Beyond connectivity, these efforts are driving financial inclusion, enabling e-commerce, and opening new pathways for economic participation.

As Tanzania strengthens its digital infrastructure, the country is steadily laying the foundation for a more connected, inclusive, and competitive economy—one where technology serves as a powerful engine for national development.