Digital growth spurs youth inclusion, connectivity
DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA communications sector has recorded exponential growth over the past two years, with the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) playing a pivotal role in expanding network coverage, enhancing inclusivity and empowering youth to thrive in the digital age.
According to the latest quarterly report released by TCRA Director General Dr Jabiri Bakari, telecom subscriptions reached 92.7 million by June 2025,
while internet subscriptions stood at 54.1 million marking a steady rise from the 90.2 million mobile connections recorded in March 2025, underscoring the sector’s rapid growth.
Internet penetration now covers 79 per cent of the population, putting Tanzania firmly on track to meet the government’s 2025 target of 80 per cent.
At the same time, smartphone penetration has jumped from about 25 per cent in 2022 to 37 per cent as of June 2025.
“This shows that more young people, students and entrepreneurs can now access digital services beyond voice calls, from online learning to mobile commerce,” said Dr Bakari.
He explained that active SIM cards have now surpassed the national population, reaching a penetration rate of 139 per cent, a reflection of widespread multiple SIM ownership and growing demand for mobile services.
Dr Bakari’s report also highlighted the robust expansion of mobile technologies: as of June 2025, 3G and 4G networks are accessible to 93 per cent and 92 per cent of the population respectively.
Meanwhile, 5G subscriptions increased from 1.19 million in April to 1.31 million by June, with geographical coverage expanding from 23 to 26 per cent in just two months.
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Industry analysts say the trends signal a market that is not only expanding but also modernising in step with global standards.
“With widespread 4G and emerging 5G services, Tanzania is well-positioned to support advanced applications such as e-government, telemedicine and high-speed financial services,” one sector analyst observed.
TCRA’s regulatory leadership has also driven financial inclusion, with mobile money accounts more than doubling over five years, from 25.8 million in 2019 to 68.1 million by June 2025.
This growth has particularly benefited youths and small businesses that previously lacked access to formal banking services.
In addition to improving connectivity, TCRA has championed digital literacy and innovation through initiatives such as digital clubs in schools, ICT centres and content creator programmes.
These efforts aim to equip young Tanzanians with practical digital skills for safe online participation, entrepreneurship and employment in the technology sector.
“The future of Tanzania’s digital economy depends on young people being empowered to innovate and lead,” the Authority has consistently emphasised.
Rural and under served communities have also benefited from TCRA-supervised tower roll out programmes, supported by the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF).
These initiatives have extended mobile and internet coverage to thousands of villages, enabling access to digital health services, education platforms and e-commerce opportunities.
While the cost of devices and data packages remains a challenge, experts believe Tanzania is on a promising growth trajectory.
Stakeholders urge the regulator to continue focusing on last-mile connectivity, promoting affordable smart devices and scaling up digital skills training.
With digital access rising, network quality improving and millions of young Tanzanians gaining new opportunities, TCRA’s stewardship is helping steer the country toward a more inclusive, knowledge-driven digital economy.
