Airtel deepens digital expansion in Tunduma, Mwanjelwa trade hubs

MBEYA: AIRTEL Tanzania has expanded its digital services network after launching two new Digital Smart Shops in Tunduma and Mwanjelwa in Mbeya Region, targeting growing business communities and increasing demand for communication and financial services in the Southern Highlands.

The launches are part of the company’s strategy to improve customer experience and bring digital and financial services closer to people living and doing business in major commercial centres across the country.

The Tunduma Smart Shop was launched first as the town continues to grow as one of Tanzania’s key business gateways linking East and Southern Africa.

Located at Tunduma Hotel near Azania Bank, the shop was officially launched by Momba District Commissioner, Hon. Elias Daniel Mwandobo, together with Airtel Tanzania Director of Customer Experience, Adriana Lyamba.

Speaking during the launch, Ms Lyamba said Tunduma has become an important business centre because of its role in regional trade and transport.

“Tunduma is one of Tanzania’s most strategic commercial gateways connecting East and Southern Africa. The town continues to grow rapidly due to trade, transport and regional business activities. As Airtel, we recognize the increasing demand for reliable communication, fast internet and digital financial services in this important economic corridor,” she said.

Tunduma serves as a major border town between Tanzania and Zambia and supports cargo transportation to several Southern African countries through the Port of Dar es Salaam.

According to the 2022 Population and Housing Census, the town has more than 219,000 residents, with the number continuing to rise due to business and investment opportunities.

The new Smart Shop will provide Airtel Money services, SIM registration, internet solutions, smartphone access, customer support and digital services for businesses and individuals.

Mr Mwandobo praised Airtel Tanzania for investing in strategic commercial areas and supporting the government’s digital economy agenda.

“Modern trade depends on modern communication. Investments such as this help improve financial inclusion, support businesses and create opportunities for our young people,” he said.

On the same day, Airtel Tanzania also launched another Digital Smart Shop in Mwanjelwa, one of Mbeya City’s busiest commercial areas.

The new shop is located at Mbasi Fuel Station near Vunja Bei Store and was launched by Mbeya District Commissioner, Hon. Solomon J. Itunda, alongside Ms Lyamba.

Speaking during the event, Ms Lyamba said Mwanjelwa remains an important business centre for Mbeya and the Southern Highlands because thousands of traders and customers depend on the area every day.

“Mwanjelwa is the heartbeat of commerce in Mbeya. Thousands of people depend on this area every day for business, transport and economic opportunities. Airtel is proud to continue investing in digital infrastructure and customer services that support the daily lives and businesses of wananchi,” she said.

Mwanjelwa is home to the Mwanjelwa Central Market, one of the largest markets in the Southern Highlands serving thousands of traders and consumers daily.

Mbeya City had a population of more than 541,000 people according to the 2022 Population and Housing Census and continues to experience rapid urban and commercial growth.

The Mwanjelwa Smart Shop will provide services including Airtel Money, customer care, internet and data services, smartphone access and digital business support.

Speaking on behalf of the District Commissioner, Mr Ghaty Chacha said technology and communication services are now important tools for economic growth and financial inclusion.

Airtel Tanzania said the two new Smart Shops are part of the company’s continued investment in expanding digital services and strengthening communication infrastructure across the country.