Tanzania nears completion of 758 communication towers to enhance connectivity

Dar es Salaam. The construction of 758 new communication towers across Tanzania has reached 57 percent completion, according to the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF). 

The initiative aims to improve telecommunications access for millions of Tanzanians, bridging the digital divide.

In 2023, the government allocated a subsidy of Sh126 billion to telecommunications companies to facilitate the construction of the towers. So far, 430 towers have been completed, significantly enhancing connectivity in underserved areas.

Also read: What 758 new telecom towers mean for Tanzania's rural economy

Speaking today, Thursday, March 27, UCSAF Chief Executive Officer Mr Peter Mwasalyanda said the project is in its final stages, with new towers being completed daily. 

“We expect to finish by May this year and achieve our target of reaching eight million Tanzanians by next month,” said Mr Mwasalyanda.

He said the substantial achievements made in recent years, particularly in tower construction, was vital for keeping pace with the digital age. UCSAF, he said has invested massively in education in an effort to encourage girls to pursue science subjects.

Mr Mwasalyanda revealed that plans were in place to construct over 280 more towers to further strengthen Tanzania’s telecommunications infrastructure. The initiative will also improve radio signal reception and expand free public internet access.

In another development, Government Spokesperson and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Mr Gerson Msigwa, announced the conclusion of a nationwide information-gathering process on public project implementation. 

He said that the next step would be for ministers to provide a comprehensive review of achievements across various sectors over the past four years.

“I extend my gratitude to journalists for their cooperation in ensuring that Tanzanians are informed about the government’s progress,” Mr Msigwa said.

Furthermore, the government is implementing a separate project to construct 42 communication towers in Zanzibar at a cost of Sh6.9 billion. In addition, efforts to enhance internet access have resulted in the installation of public Wi-Fi in seven locations across the country in the past four years.

As part of its commitment to advancing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in education, the government has provided 469 schools with ICT equipment valued at Sh2.5 billion.

The equipment, which includes computers, printers, and projectors, is intended to familiarise students with digital learning and enable them to take exams using projectors.

“To ensure students develop computer skills from an early age and adapt to the digital era, we must provide them with the necessary tools to explore different subjects rather than waiting until they reach higher education institutions,” Mr Mwasalyanda stated.