MPs applaud expansion of communication services

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Parliamentary Standing Committee on Infrastructure has commended the government for expanding communication services across the country, urging citizens to fully utilise the opportunity to speed up social and economic development.

Committee Chairperson, Mr Seleman Kakoso, made the remarks yesterday during a visit to a communication tower at Kibada Ward, Kigamboni, in Dar es Salaam.

The visit was part of the committee’s oversight tour to assess progress in the implementation of communication infrastructure projects nationwide.

Mr Kakoso praised the government for its continued investment in communication infrastructure, noting that improved connectivity has the potential to transform rural communities by enhancing access to information, education, business opportunities and essential services.

“We appreciate the government’s efforts to ensure communication services reach various parts of the country. It is equally important for people to utilise these services in ways that support development and improve livelihoods,” he said.

He further urged relevant authorities to prioritise the expansion of communication networks, particularly in rural areas that have historically lagged behind in connectivity.

“It is important to ensure that communication services reach more rural areas and that the installed towers are modern and of high quality to guarantee reliable services for citizens,” he stated.

Mr Kakoso also called on parents and guardians to closely monitor how children and young people use digital platforms and communication networks.

“Parents and guardians must ensure children use communication technologies responsibly and focus on activities that positively contribute to their lives and education,” he said.

The committee chairperson also challenged telecommunication companies to strengthen their corporate social responsibility programmes and give back to communities hosting their infrastructure.

According to him, the growth of the communications sector should go hand in hand with tangible community development initiatives such as support for education, health services and other social programmes.

ALSO READ: Communication services affordable, Bunge told

The Director General of the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF), Engineer Peter Mwasalyanda, expressed gratitude to the government for its support, which has enabled the successful implementation of communication tower projects across the country.

“These projects were large and demanding, but we thank the leadership for the clear guidance and support provided, which enabled us to successfully complete the construction of communication towers,” he said.

Engineer Mwasalyanda stated that the installed towers are equipped with modern technology, capable of supporting multiple network services.

“We have successfully constructed 758 new towers and upgraded 304 existing ones from 2G and 3G networks to advanced 4G and 5G networks,” he added.

Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Ms Angellah Kairuki, said the ministry had received the committee’s recommendations and would continue working to ensure communication services are delivered efficiently and at high standards nationwide.

A Kibada resident, Ms Mboni Mohammed Mbegu, welcomed the project, saying the communication tower had significantly improved connectivity and contributed to technological development in the area.

“These projects have become a catalyst for development in our community. Communication is no longer a challenge due to improved and reliable infrastructure,” she said.