Vodacom, Zanzibar partner to accelerate digital connectivity
Zanzibar Information and Communication Technology Infrastructure Agency director general Shukuru Awadhi Suleiman (left) and Vodacom network director Andrew Lupembe sign a partnership agreement aimed at increasing the company’s network capacity, coverage and dedicated internet in Zanzibar. PHOTO | the citizen Correspondent
What you need to know:
- The agreement grants Vodacom access to government-owned submarine fiber optic infrastructure, significantly improving voice and data communication across the Isles
Zanzibar. Vodacom Tanzania PLC has signed a partnership agreement with the Zanzibar Information and Communication Technology Infrastructure Agency (ZICTIA) to enhance communication services and accelerate digital transformation in Zanzibar.
The agreement, signed at the ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport offices in Zanzibar, grants Vodacom access to government-owned submarine fibre optic infrastructure, significantly improving voice and data communication across the Isles.
The signing ceremony was attended by the minister for Infrastructure, Communications and Transport, Dr Khalid Salum Mohamed, ZICTIA director general, Mr Shukuru Awadh Suleiman, and Vodacom Tanzania’s network director, Mr Andrew Lupembe, who represented Vodacom Tanzania’s managing director.
Officiating the event, Dr Mohamed commended Vodacom Tanzania for its efforts in expanding network coverage.
“We commend Vodacom for increasing the number of communication towers in Zanzibar, which has significantly strengthened network capacity and internet services. We encourage other stakeholders to collaborate with us to expand communication access for all citizens.”
He further reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting mobile operators in improving internet accessibility.
“We appreciate Vodacom’s collaboration in utilising ZICTIA’s infrastructure—an investment made by the government to advance the national ICT agenda and ensure that citizens benefit from modern technology.”
According to him, the investment will guarantee faster and more reliable internet services, which will help to strengthen e-government programmes, e-learning, e-health and e-commerce. Vodacom Tanzania’s network director, Mr Andrew Lupembe, highlighted the company’s commitment to improving connectivity in Zanzibar.
“As a leading technology company, we understand that communication is the foundation of economic growth and innovation. Through this partnership with ZICTIA, we are ensuring that businesses, institutions and citizens in Zanzibar can communicate, access digital services and conduct transactions seamlessly,” he said.
ZICTIA’s director general, Mr Shukuru Awadh Suleiman, underscored the importance of leveraging national infrastructure to accelerate ICT development.
“Our submarine fibre optic network was designed to usher Zanzibar into the digital era. We are pleased to see Vodacom utilising this resource to enhance its services, supporting our vision of a technology-driven society and sustainable socio-economic development,” he said.
The partnership marks a significant step in Zanzibar’s digital transformation, positioning the Isles as a hub for communication and innovation. With Vodacom’s expanded infrastructure and ZICTIA’s ICT framework, Zanzibar is set to benefit from an advanced, high-speed digital ecosystem.
