Experts back Tanzania’s cyber-security push amid growing digital threats

The high-level event brought together top government officials, tech experts, industry leaders and global cybersecurity specialists to discuss how Tanzania can build a more resilient digital infrastructure.

The forum was organised by the Tanzania ICT Commission in collaboration with government agencies, international partners and private sector players.

It focused on building cyber resilience, raising awareness, and sharing global best practices.

“We are witnessing rapid digital growth across sectors. But with this comes the responsibility to protect our systems and citizens from cyber threats,” said Director General of the Tanzania ICT Commission, Dr Nkundwe Mwasaga.

He said the forum aligns with Tanzania’s broader vision of a secure and thriving digital economy.

“As we move towards the digital economy goal, the safety of our digital environment is no longer optional—it is essential,” Dr Mwasaga added.

Tanzania has seen impressive digital growth in recent years.

As of September 2023, telecom subscriptions rose by 4.7 percent to reach 67.1 million.

Mobile phone penetration now stands at over 85 percent, placing Tanzania among Africa’s most connected nations.

This growth has led to a surge in e-commerce platforms, digital startups, mobile money usage, and online services even in rural areas.

However, this expansion also exposes users and institutions to rising cyber risks.

“From phishing scams to ransomware, the threats are real and growing,” said CEO of Serensic Africa and a leading cybersecurity expert, Ms Esther Mengi.

“We’ve seen global cybercrime damages expected to hit $10.5 trillion by 2025. Tanzania must act now.”

During the Covid-19 pandemic, cybercrime globally surged by 600 percent.

In 2020 alone, the average cost of a data breach was $3.86 million, according to global cybersecurity reports.

The Tanzania Computer Emergency Response Team (TZ-CERT) reports a steady increase in cyber incidents in the country.

Most involve attacks on mobile money accounts, social media fraud, and data breaches in businesses and government agencies.

To strengthen its defence, Tanzania recently launched a National Cybersecurity Strategy (2023–2028) and established a Data Protection Commission—both seen as crucial steps to protect sensitive information and critical infrastructure.

“These developments show strong political will,” said a cybersecurity expert from Germany, Dr Tino Naumann. “Germany has invested in layered digital protections and education. Tanzania can learn from such models.”

Dr Naumann warned that cyber threats affect not only individuals but entire economies.

“The theft of data, financial fraud, and attacks on national systems can damage trust, hurt business and slow down development,” he said.

Tanzania's cybersecurity index ranking improved in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)’s 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index.

Experts say maintaining and improving this ranking requires real investment in systems, talent and policy.

Banks and financial institutions, which are among the most targeted by hackers, say they are ready to be part of the solution.

“We’ve come to this forum to share, learn, and work with the government,” said a CRDB Bank representative, Mr Robert Karamagi.

“Cybersecurity is not just a government issue. It’s about protecting our economy and people’s wealth.”

Mr Karamagi said banks must invest in new tools, staff training and digital monitoring to stay ahead of attackers. “We are dealing with sophisticated threats. It requires serious collaboration.”

What more should be done?

While the new strategy and legal frameworks are a good start, experts stress the need for strong implementation.

“Laws alone won’t stop hackers,” said head of cybersecurity Services at Soft-Tech Consultants Ltd, Mr Abdulrahman Hussein.

“We need massive awareness campaigns, training for cybersecurity professionals and partnerships with global tech firms.”

He also called for more investment in homegrown innovation.

“Let’s support local cybersecurity startups. They understand the local context and can provide customised solutions.”

Dr Mwasaga echoed this, adding that more youth need to be trained in ethical hacking, digital forensics and cyber law. “Cybersecurity jobs can empower youth and reduce unemployment while serving national interests.”

As Tanzania’s digital footprint grows, the need to protect it becomes more urgent.

The forum in Arusha was a step forward, but implementation will define success.

“We are laying the foundation,” said Dr Mwasaga.

“Now we need action, funding, partnerships and accountability to make Tanzania’s cyberspace truly secure.”

With a solid strategy in place and the right will, experts say Tanzania is well-positioned to lead Africa in building a resilient digital future.