Govt to avail communication services to all

MOROGORO: RESIDENTS of Msolokelo Village, Pemba Ward in Mvomero District, Morogoro Region are celebrating the arrival of reliable mobile network services following the completion of a communication tower by Vodacom Tanzania, funded through a government subsidy provided by the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF).

For decades, the village, home to hundreds of farming families, struggled with nearcomplete isolation from the rest of the country.

Villagers could not make emergency calls, children had little chance to access digital education and traders faced constant hurdles in linking with buyers and suppliers. That changed dramatically with the commissioning of the Msolokelo tower, which officially went live on August 21, 2025.

UCSAF Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Peter Mwasalyanda, who inspected the new facility recently, reaffirmed the government’s determination to extend communication services to every corner of the country.

“The government is determined to reach every Tanzanian with communication services. As of now, 733 towers out of 758 have been completed and are operational, representing 97 per cent completion of the project,” he said.

He explained that the project is part of a long-term government strategy to bridge the digital divide, especially in rural areas.

With just 3 per cent of towers remaining, the government will launch Phase 10 of the programme in November, which will add another 280 towers countrywide.

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According to Eng Mwasalyanda, villagers once had to climb trees and hills just to catch a faint signal for calls and text messages.

“For over 60 years since independence, Msolokelo residents have faced severe communication challenges. The commissioning of this tower marks a turning point, bringing the village onto the national communication map with 2G, 3G and 4G network coverage,” he said.

Local leaders and residents testified on how the change has already begun to transform lives.

Village Chairperson, Mr Hamisi Gego, said access to mobile networks has opened up opportunities for mobile banking, digital trade and social services.

“Previously, the village lagged behind in development due to poor communication. Now, within just a month of service, residents can access mobile banking, market information and even order goods online,” he explained.

Farmers, who form the backbone of the community, are now able to monitor crop prices, negotiate directly with buyers and receive digital payments safely, reducing losses and travel costs.

Ms Amina Bakari, a resident and mother of three, highlighted how the tower is saving lives. “In the past, expectant mothers struggled to find transport in time for delivery. Many gave birth at home, sometimes with tragic outcomes. Now, we can easily call for help. We thank the government, especially President Samia, for this development,” she said.

The tower’s construction followed a December 2024 visit by Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Mr Jerry Silaa, who ordered UCSAF to address the problem urgently.