DTP records major milestones, 758 towers built
ARUSHA: THE government has recorded significant progress in the implementation of the Tanzania Digital Project (DTP), aimed at enhancing high-speed internet services for public institutions and citizens.
This move is expected to accelerate the country’s digital economy and adoption of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The remarks were made yesterday in Arusha by DTP Project Coordinator Bakari Mwamgugu during a five-year project implementation review meeting.
The initiative is being jointly implemented by the government and the World Bank from 2021 to 2026.
Mr Mwamgugu said the project has produced positive results in improving internet quality and speed, enabling Tanzania to build a society capable of effectively leveraging digital technologies.
“To date, a total of 758 communication towers have been constructed across Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar, improving connectivity, particularly in rural areas that previously had limited or no reliable network coverage,” he said.
The project has also facilitated the establishment of 32 one-stop service centres at Posta offices nationwide, allowing citizens to access multiple government services under one roof without visiting several offices.
“More than eight ICT incubation centres have been set up in regions including Lindi, Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Mbeya, Dodoma, and Zanzibar,” he said.
He said, public institutions, primary and secondary schools, and various government offices have been connected to the National ICT Broadband Backbone, with 851 offices already linked.
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Mr Mwamgugu further said that the government has expanded internet capacity across Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar to ensure full participation in the digital economy and readiness for emerging technologies such as AI.
World Bank Task Team Leader, Paul Seaden said the review meeting was crucial for assessing project progress and ensuring effective implementation to achieve the intended outcomes.
He commended the government for strong cooperation and reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting the remaining components of the first phase and future digital initiatives.
Assistant Director for ICT Systems and Services at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Dr Angelina Mussa said the project is key to strengthening ICT infrastructure and promoting inclusive access to digital services nationwide.
Representing Zanzibar, DTP Project Coordinator Lali Hamis Ali noted that the project has significantly increased internet usage and improved public service delivery through government institutions on the islands.
He said that these achievements mark a major step in Tanzania’s digital transformation agenda, with the ultimate goal of ensuring every citizen benefits from digital opportunities.
