SIM card registration soars, boosts digital services

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA telecommunications sector continues on a path of impressive growth, with recent data revealing more than 92.7 million active SIM cards across the country.

This surge reflects the sector’s vitality and its expanding role in driving inclusive economic and social transformation.

Of the total, 47.1 million SIM cards are registered to male users, while 44.5 million are registered to females.

According to the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) Director General Dr Jabiri Bakari, the rapid growth in SIM ownership depicts not only the expanding reach of mobile services, but also the growing public trust in Tanzania’s digital infrastructure.

With a population of just over 65 million, the data suggests that many Tanzanians own more than one SIM card, a common practice that enhances connectivity and consumer flexibility.

He said mobile connectivity has become a cornerstone of national development.

The telecommunications sector now supports a wide range of services, including mobile money, digital entrepreneurship, e-learning, tele-health and e-governance.

“The widespread use of mobile phones has empowered Tanzanians to access essential services, run businesses and engage more fully in the digital economy. Notably, the relatively narrow gap between male and female SIM card ownership signals progress in digital gender inclusion. Women across both urban and rural areas are increasingly leveraging mobile technology to access financial services, connect to markets and benefit from social support systems,” he said.

He said in rural communities, where traditional infrastructure may be lacking, mobile connectivity is especially empowering.

Women can now receive health alerts, educational resources and agricultural market information directly through their phones improving household welfare and community development.

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The steady growth in SIM card usage also sends a strong signal to investors and service providers: Tanzania’s digital economy is thriving.

Mobile network operators have expanded coverage and introduced innovations such as 4G and 5G networks, affordable smartphones and data bundle packages tailored to local needs.

Dr Bakari said this positive trend has drawn in new players and forged strategic partnerships, generating employment, enhancing service delivery and increasing the competitiveness of the ICT sector.

\The government, through the TCRA, continues to provide a stable and forward-looking regulatory environment that supports innovation while protecting consumer rights.

He said the increasing penetration of mobile services directly contributes to the goals outlined in the Third Five-Year Development Plan (FYDP III) and the Digital Economy Framework.

Mobile technology is enhancing public service delivery across education, healthcare, agriculture and governance bridging both geographic and economic divides.

The TCRA boss said mobile platforms have opened doors for Tanzanians to start businesses, transfer funds securely and access online learning opportunities critical for addressing youth unemployment and spurring rural development.

With mobile connectivity now touching nearly every aspect of daily life, the future of Tanzania’s telecommunications sector looks promising.

Continued investment in infrastructure, digital literacy and local content creation will further unlock opportunities making digital access a cornerstone of national prosperity.

The rise in SIM card ownership is more than just a statistic it is a powerful testament to Tanzania’s digital readiness and the resilience of its people in embracing technology for progress.