UCC board visits TCRA to learn on licensing, digital reforms
DAR ES SALAAM: A DELEGATION from the Board of Directors of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has paid a one-day study visit to the headquarters of the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) to learn about Tanzania’s regulatory model and digital approach to licensing communication service providers.
The delegation was led by the newly appointed Chairperson of the UCC Board, Dr Charity Mulenga, accompanied by other newly sworn-in board members. Welcoming the guests, TCRA Acting Director General Dr Philip Filikunjombe congratulated the new board members and expressed his best wishes for their tenure.
Dr Filikunjombe gave the delegation an overview of TCRA’s mandate and its recent reforms, particularly the digitisation of licensing through the Tanzanite Portal, a system that has transformed service delivery for communication providers in Tanzania.
“Licensing is now fully digital. Service providers no longer need to visit our offices. They can complete the entire process from application to issuance online through the Tanzanite Portal,” he noted.
TCRA’s Manager for Compliance and Monitoring, Engineer Mwesiga Barongo delivered a detailed presentation on the structure and evolution of the Licensing Framework. He highlighted key improvements that have enhanced efficiency and service quality.
“Since 2021, we have taken deliberate steps to modernise the licensing system. Today, most of our services are conducted digitally via platforms like the Tanzanite Portal,” he said.
Manager of TCRA’s ICT Unit, Engineer Iddi Mtanga, introduced the Communications Monitoring System, which offers real-time data on the performance of communication infrastructure and services.
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“Originally, the system monitored only mobile service providers. Now, it has expanded to cover telecom, broadcasting, postal and internet services,” Engineer Mtanga explained.
In response, Dr Mulenga expressed appreciation for the warm reception and the transparent sharing of knowledge.
“We are grateful for the valuable insights and the depth of information shared with us. As a newly appointed board, this exchange is timely and will help guide our efforts in strengthening Uganda’s communications sector,” she said.
She also commended TCRA’s state-of-the-art Electronics Testing Laboratory, emphasising its importance as a potential regional resource.
“This modern laboratory is a great asset not just for Tanzania but for neighbouring countries like Uganda that are yet to establish such facilities. We look forward to becoming regular clients of the lab to ensure the safety and compliance of devices entering the Ugandan market,” she added.
In recent years, TCRA has become a leading reference point for communications regulators across Africa, particularly from East Africa, Southern African Development Community (SADC) and West Africa. Previous delegations have included officials from Kenya, South Africa, Comoros, Uganda, Malawi and Mali drawn by TCRA’s successful reforms and digital transformation.
