TCRA ups efforts to foster digital economy
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has made significant strides in fostering growth of the digital economy in Tanzania.
The TCRA’s Director General Dr Jabiri Bakari said at the on-going 48th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair that TCRA was determined to ensure that Tanzania possesses a modern communication infrastructure that supports the burgeoning digital economy in various aspects of life.
The TCRA Chief highlighted the provision of resources for high-speed 4G and 5G internet as one of the key measures undertaken by TCRA to accelerate the country’s digital transformation.
In the realm of education, TCRA is actively implementing programmes to cultivate digital skills, including the establishment and coordination of digital clubs in schools and universities.
He explained that these clubs empower students to grasp digital technologies and their practical applications, urging students from all levels of education to actively participate in these initiatives.
Recognising the importance of nurturing young innovators, Dr Jabiri underscored TCRA’s partnership with Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), to provide digital technologies innovators with free communication resources namely numbering resources, frequency spectrum and dot tz domains.
Also read: Why TCRA engages broadcasting stakeholders in quality content
“TCRA is unwavering in its commitment to empowering young innovators in the digital technology domain by providing them with resources they need to develop and implement digital solutions that can positively impact healthcare, agribusiness, entrepreneurship, education, social services, and businesses,” he stated.
The TCRA DG, further emphasized TCRA’s public education campaigns, which advocate for utilisation of digital technology in various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, and education.
He asserted that these technologies hold immense potential to bring about positive change in the lives of Tanzanian citizens.
In a call to action, Dr Jabiri urged media editors to strengthen collaboration in disseminating information about digital and blue economy.
He highlighted the crucial role of mass media in raising awareness about the transformative potential of these technologies and mobilising public support for their adoption.
Presenting the latest sector figures, the TCRA Chief, showcased several notable achievements in the organisation’s endeavours to foster the digital and blue economy in Tanzania.
These successes include a significant increase in the number of mobile phone lines, rising from 64.01 million in June 2023 to 72 million in March 2024.
Additionally, there has been a remarkable reduction in the cost of phone connectivity, dropping from 30.58/- in 2015 to 1.00/- per minute in 2024.
The number of internet users has also witnessed a substantial increase, now reaching 36 million users.
