Govt expands open-source technology use
DAR ES SALAAM: THE government says it is expanding the use of open-source technology across public institutions to strengthen digital sovereignty, improve service delivery and reduce software costs.
Minister for Communication and Information Technology Angellah Kairuki said the move enables the government to own and control its digital infrastructure while safeguarding critical government information.
“Open-source technology enables the government to fully own and control its digital infrastructure while protecting critical government information,” Ms Kairuki said while addressing the UN OpenSource Week 2026 in New York, United States.
She said Tanzania has created an enabling environment for the adoption of opensource technologies through the e-Government Authority Act of 2020 and the Personal Information Protection Act (Chapter 44) of 2023.
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“The legal framework has provided clear guidelines and procedures for developing digital systems in public institutions using open-source technologies,” she said.
Ms Kairuki said many government systems have already been developed using opensource software, reducing software licensing costs while improving efficiency in public service delivery.
“This step has strengthened information security, improved system integration and promoted the use of local experts to develop and manage government systems, ensuring better use of public resources,” she said.
She said the government has also invested in building local expertise, with more than 500 public servants trained in emerging technologies to enhance the country’s capacity to design, develop and manage government digital systems.
“Building the capacity of public servants is essential to ensuring Tanzania develops and manages its own digital systems using local expertise,” she said.
Ms Kairuki said collaboration among governments, technology innovators and development partners remains essential in building an inclusive digital economy and accelerating sustainable development.
“Collaboration between leaders, technology innovators and other stakeholders is critical to building a nation with digital freedom and sustainable development that benefits all citizens,” she said.
Meanwhile, Ms Kairuki said the government is also strengthening international cooperation to support the country’s digital transformation agenda.
During a visit to Viettel High Technology Industries in Hanoi, Vietnam, she said Tanzania is prioritising investment in digital infrastructure and emerging technologies to accelerate socio-economic development, strengthen industry and create employment opportunities.
“Investment in digital infrastructure and emerging technologies is essential to supporting an inclusive, resilient and sustainable digital economy while creating opportunities for innovation and industrial development,” she said.
Ms Kairuki said the government is keen to deepen cooperation with technology companies capable of supporting Tanzania’s ambitions in digital infrastructure, technological innovation and human capital development.
She commended Viettel High Technology Industries for its continued investment in research and development, saying the company’s experience could contribute to Tanzania’s digital transformation drive.
Officials from Viettel High Technology Industries expressed readiness to work with Tanzania in communication infrastructure, technology transfer, digital innovation, professional capacity building and joint research.
