Vodacom Tanzania, along with other mobile network operators, will contribute to the government’s efforts in expanding telecommunication services and promoting digital economy initiatives in the country. The project, called Digital Tanzania, aims to extend broadband services to 713 wards, benefiting over 8.5 million Tanzanians upon completion. The government, in collaboration with the World Bank, aims to achieve 80% broadband penetration by 2025.
The signing ceremony for this partnership took place in Dodoma, officiated by President Samia Suluhu Hassan. She commended the implementation of development projects benefiting Tanzanians through partnerships between public institutions and private organizations. Quality and reliable telecommunication services are crucial for political, social, and economic development, as well as national safety and security.
President Suluhu highlighted the positive impact of the project on various areas. It will enhance business growth in rural areas, provide farmers with information and expand their markets. It will also lead to increased access to information and opportunities through the use of smartphones. Additionally, it will benefit the health sector, particularly telemedicine, by improving connectivity and reducing maternal mortality rates.
Philip Besiimire, the Managing Director of Vodacom Tanzania Plc, explained the company’s vision to lead Tanzania into the digital age. Vodacom has developed products and services in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and mobile financial services.
Mr. Besiimire emphasized the impact of Vodacom’s initiatives on the agriculture sector. Their M-Kulima platform has registered over 3.1 million farmers and facilitated secure transactions. Vodacom’s partnership with UCSAF will further expand these services.
Regarding network investment, Mr. Besiimire mentioned the thousands of sites built by Vodacom, including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. Vodacom continues to strengthen its network by expanding coverage and modernizing infrastructure.
Through partnerships with the government, Vodacom has connected over 3.6 million Tanzanians to mobile services. Mr. Besiimire emphasized the role of network availability in driving digital transformation and advancing solutions in sectors like health and education.
Vodacom Tanzania has been allocated 190 wards as part of the Digital Tanzania partnership. Upon completion, it will have reached 525 wards, connecting over 8 million Tanzanians and enabling their participation in the digital economy.
Vodacom Tanzania PLC has been a key stakeholder in utilizing the National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) infrastructure since 2012. The company has entered capacity leasing contracts worth over USD 60 million, facilitating increased internet accessibility and promoting national growth.
The partnership between Vodacom Tanzania and the government demonstrates their commitment to enhancing digital connectivity and driving the digital economy forward. The project aims to bridge the digital divide, allowing more Tanzanians to access information, online services, and leverage technology for personal and economic growth.
Improved connectivity has implications for various sectors. In agriculture, farmers will benefit from digital services like M-Kulima, offering electronic payments and market information. Reliable telecommunication services will also enable e-commerce platforms and create economic opportunities.
In healthcare, telemedicine services supported by connectivity will improve access, reduce maternal mortality rates, and enhance healthcare outcomes. The m-mama program serves as an example of the positive impact of mobile technology in healthcare.
Education will benefit from expanded connectivity through the delivery of digital content, online learning platforms, and remote education programs. This will enhance access to quality education, especially in remote areas, and develop digital literacy skills for students.
