New tower connects 5,600 residents

MANYARA: OVER 5,600 residents of Qash Ward in Babati District, Manyara Region are now connected to mobile and internet services following the construction of a new communication tower under a nationwide connectivity programme.

The tower, constructed by Vodacom Tanzania, provides 2G, 3G and 4G services and also serves residents in Endadosh Village and surrounding hamlets.

The project is part of a national initiative that has seen 758 communication towers built across the country to expand digital access in underserved areas.

The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Monday inspected the facility during a visit to assess the implementation of publicly funded projects.

Speaking to residents, PAC Chairperson Ms Dativa Minja urged the community to make full use of the improved connectivity to enhance productivity and incomes.

“Communication is power. As farmers, you can track market prices, identify buyers and improve your income,” she said.

She also called on residents to safeguard the infrastructure, describing it as key to local economic development.

The tower was constructed under a government subsidy of 126bn/- through the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF), with additional investment from telecom operators.

UCSAF Board Chair, Ambassador Valentino Mlowola, said the nationwide project was completed on December 31, 2025, despite delays caused by heavy rains.

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“The project has enabled 8.5 million Tanzanians to access reliable mobile services, including voice calls, mobile money and digital information,” he said.

He said that Babati District received six towers located in Nkaiti, Gidas, Qash, Qameyu, Secheda and Ufana.

Vodacom Northern Zone Manager, Mr George Mng’ong’o said the Qash tower is already improving livelihoods.

“About 1,500 people are now using internet services, while more than 600 own smartphones. Over 100 youths have secured income-generating opportunities as mobile service agents,” he said.

The rollout was implemented across all 26 regions of Mainland Tanzania, following a similar project in Zanzibar in 2022 that saw 42 towers constructed to improve connectivity.

Officials say improved digital access is expected to support economic activities, particularly in rural areas where access to communication services has been limited.