Joseph Isangura
The Tanzanian government has revealed significant progress in expanding nationwide telecommunications infrastructure, announcing that a total of 1,041 communication towers have been constructed over the past four years, improving connectivity and access to mobile services for citizens across urban and rural areas.
Deputy Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Dr Switbert Mkama, made the announcement in Parliament on February 2, 2026, while responding to a question from the Member of Parliament for Tunduru South, Fadhili Chilombe. Chilombe had inquired about plans to establish communication towers in the villages of Kazamoyo, Imani, and Kilimani in his constituency.
“In the past four years, a total of 1,041 towers have been constructed, providing telecommunications services to citizens,” Dr Mkama said. He noted that 758 of these towers were developed under the Tanzania Digital Project, which was officially launched by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on May 13, 2023.
The Deputy Minister further highlighted ongoing efforts through the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF) to extend telecommunications coverage to remaining underserved areas. He said that on December 5, 2025, contracts were signed to deliver services to 201 wards, with completion expected by March 2027.
Looking ahead, Dr Mkama stated that the government plans to extend telecommunications infrastructure to an additional 280 strategic areas during the 2025/26 financial year. Priority locations include sites along the Standard Gauge Railway, national parks, major highways, and border regions.
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He emphasized that the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, in collaboration with relevant agencies and telecommunications providers, is developing a National Five-Year Strategy (2025–2030) aimed at constructing additional towers to significantly reduce gaps in mobile network coverage.
“The strategy seeks to ensure that every citizen, regardless of location, has access to reliable communication services,” Dr Mkama said. “By focusing on underserved and strategic areas, we aim to support socio-economic development and facilitate access to information for all Tanzanians.”
Telecommunications experts welcomed the announcement, noting that improved infrastructure is crucial for promoting digital inclusion, economic growth, and access to essential services such as mobile banking, e-learning, and telemedicine. They also highlighted that robust tower networks help support emergency services and enhance national security.
As Tanzania continues to expand its digital infrastructure, government officials say the coordinated approach of combining public investment, private sector participation, and strategic planning will be key to achieving nationwide connectivity and bridging the digital divide.
The government’s efforts reflect a broader commitment to harnessing technology as a driver of development, ensuring that citizens in even the most remote regions benefit from modern communication services.
