Govt prioritises expanding digital access for Tanzanians

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to increasing the number of data users in the community to enhance digital inclusion and improve access to information and communication technologies (ICT).

Deputy Minister for Information, Communication and Information Technology, Engineer Maryprisca Mahundi, made this statement during her visit to Airtel Tanzania and the 2 Africa Submarine Cable facility at Mbezi Beach, Tangibovu in Dar es Salaam.

Eng Mahundi highlighted that data services are currently accessible to only a small segment of the population.

She stressed that to fully leverage the submarine cable’s capabilities, smartphones must become more widely available, including in rural areas.

“If Tanzanians can access smartphones at affordable prices, the utilisation of this submarine cable will increase significantly,” she said.

She further noted that as the number of users grows, the benefits will become more pronounced, and Airtel’s facility will gain even greater value.

Eng Mahundi also called on stakeholders to provide affordable smartphones to further boost the use of the 2 Africa cable.

The deputy minister emphasised that the government is supporting efforts to improve service delivery to citizens.

“Previously, people used 2G technology, which limited them to voice services only.

Now, with the upgrades to 3G and even 5G, we aim to enhance data usage.

Extensive internet access will empower citizens and improve their lives,” Eng Mahundi explained.

Airtel’s Director of Communications, Beatrice Singano, expressed her appreciation for the deputy minister’s visit.

“Her visit to Airtel and the 2 Africa Submarine Cable, which was inaugurated by President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan last August, is a significant event for us.

This cable, which connects Africa, Asia and Europe and spans over 45,000 kilometres, is a source of pride,” Singano said.

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She added that the cable will open up opportunities for Tanzania, attracting investors and providing crucial infrastructure for communication.

Singano also invited communication stakeholders to purchase capacity from the 2 Africa Submarine Cable facility at Mbezi Beach, Tangi bovu in Dar es Salaam.