TZ effectively implements ICT vision
DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has made remarkable progress in implementing its national development agenda through information and communication technology (ICT), with several targets not only met but surpassed, thanks to effective policies and strong sector management.
A report by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) pointed out major achievements in the communications sector during the sixth phase of government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, covering the period from 2020 to 2024.
According to TCRA, significant progress was recorded across 11 priority areas outlined in the ruling party CCM 2020-2025 Election Manifesto, particularly in enhancing digital connectivity, access to services and innovation.
The TCRA report reveals that the use of ICT in service delivery increased by up to 89 per cent between March 2021 and December 2024.
Mobile money accounts surged from 32.7million in 2021 to 61.8 million by the end of 2024, reflecting growing financial inclusion through digital platforms.
Over the same period, registered SIM cards increased by 67 per cent, from 53.8 million to 87.4 million, internet users rose by 65 per cent, from 29 million to 48 million and the number of mobile money accounts grew by 89 per cent.
These increases indicate expanded access to communication services and a rise in digital financial activity, especially in underserved areas.
An analysis of quarterly communication statistics confirms a competitive environment in the telecom market, with no single operator among Airtel, Halotel, TTCL, Vodacom and Yas (formerly Tigo) holding more than 32 per cent market share by SIM usage as of December 2024.
This competition contributed to a 58 per cent drop in mobile call costs, from 63/- per minute in March 2021 to 27/- by December 2024.
TCRA Director General Dr Jabiri Bakari attributed this decline to reductions in interconnection fees, which fell from 15.60/- per minute in 2018 to 1.52/- in 2024.
Licensing in the communications sector increased significantly, growing from 4,373 in December 2022 to 7,308 in December 2023.
Permits rose from 2,282 to 5,190 during the same period and equipment usage certificates increased by 127 per cent, from 2,175 to 4,948.
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According to Dr Bakari, TCRA enforces regulations requiring all imported communication devices to be approved, with environmental levies applied to prevent electronic waste dumping.
He said the government has prioritised the expansion of high-speed communications infrastructure, including rural and remote areas. The Telecommunications Traffic Monitoring System (TTMS), operated by TCRA in Dar es Salaam, continues to monitor revenue and online transaction data, helping ensure tax compliance.
In alignment with the manifesto’s directives, TCRA has issued 155 licenses for communication application systems, 210 licenses for online TV, 10 for online radio and six for online content production and distribution as of December 2024.
Dr Bakari said to curb environmental damage, Tanzania has introduced measures to block the importation of outdated and non-functional electronic devices classified as e-waste. Equipment is now inspected at the source, with importers required to pay an environmental levy to support safe disposal.
Regarding privacy, data Protection and ethics Dr Bakari said as part of the government’s commitment to data protection, Tanzania enacted the Personal Information Protection Act, complementing existing safeguards under the Electronic and Postal Communications Act (EPOCA).
“TCRA has also prioritised responsible media content. A Content Committee, in collaboration with the Journalists’ Accreditation Board, is working to ensure ethical broadcasting. Programme promoting family values, youth development and cultural preservation are being aired through 14 national channels,” he said.
TCRA is also working with the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups to produce educational content, including local children’s cartoons and traditional dance performances, in collaboration with the University of Dodoma and Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC).
Dr Bakari said the authority is also in support for science, technology and innovation. He said the manifesto calls for increased investment in science, technology and innovation.
“TCRA is spearheading initiatives to enhance the digital economy, with a focus on eGovernment services, network security and ICT infrastructure across all sectors,” he said.
To further support innovation, TCRA has engaged with independent content creators and entrepreneurs to foster creativity in digital communication.
The progress outlined in TCRA’s report illustrates the government’s commitment to advancing ICT as a catalyst for social and economic development.
By expanding access, enhancing regulatory frameworks and encouraging innovation, Tanzania is on a steady path toward becoming a digitally inclusive and information-driven society.
