Tanzania’s smartphone usage surges to 25.4 million
DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA is making good progress in smartphone usage, signifying a positive trend in the communications industry and an indicator of digitalisation acceleration.
According to the latest report by Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) as of December 2024 there were 25.4 million smartphone users, equivalent to 35.9 per cent up from 33.8 per cent as recorded in September last year.
“As of December 2024, the penetration of smartphones increased to 35.99 per cent from 33.85 per cent recorded in September 2024,” the report reads in part.
According to the TCRA, the percentage of feature phone users still remains high compared to smartphones. The report shows that, as of December 2024 penetration of feature phones surged to 87.3 per cent from 84.8 per cent in September. Apart from increase in smartphone penetrations, TCRA has reported an increase in the number of internet subscription to 16.1 per cent.
The number of internet subscribers has also increased from 41.4 million in September to 48 million as recorded in December last year.
The report indicated that the subscription to mobile and fixed internet is the total number of SIM cards and fixed lines that have accessed and used internet services in the last three months, regardless of the technology used (FTTX, GPRS, 3G, 4G and 5G, among others).
Regarding the network coverage for mobile network signals, there are significant achievements attained in the sector during this quarter.
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As of December 2024, there were expansion of Network Generations ranging from 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G reaching the population coverage of 98.2 per cent, 91 per cent, 88 per cent and 20 per cent, respectively.
Furthermore, TCRA reports has highlighted the geographical coverage for 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G that has expanded to 75.1 per cent, 73.8 per cent, 71 per cent and 2.5 per cent respectively.
TCRA have attributed the increase in rollout of mobile network coverage to a significant investment in the telecommunication infrastructure.
The increase in smartphone penetration and internet subscriptions is a testament to the government’s progress toward full digitalisation.
A successful digital economy is expected to benefit various sectors, promoting financial inclusion, a cashless economy and bridging the digital divide.
Notably, in a significant step toward digital transformation and fostering inclusive economic growth, President Samia Suluhu Hassan launched the Digital Economy Strategic Framework 2024-2034.
The launch took place during the 15th Tanzania National Business Council (TNBC) meeting held in October last year at the Dar es Salaam State House.
