Tanzania accelerates rural connectivity with new towers

21 March 2025

Tanzanian telecommunications operators have until 12 May to finalize the installation of 758 new communication towers in rural areas, a project that is currently 55% complete.

This deadline was announced recently by Jerry Silaa, the Minister of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT), with the aim of significantly improving network coverage across the country.

According to data from the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), both 3G and 4G networks currently cover approximately 85% and 58% of Tanzania's estimated population of 66.6 million in 2023. In contrast, 2G networks boast a coverage rate of 98%. The upcoming towers are expected to close the existing gap in telecommunications access, especially in rural regions.

“President Samia Suluhu has allocated 126 billion shillings for the construction of 758 communication towers in rural areas, which will significantly reduce the network coverage gap in the country,” said Silaa.

This investment is part of broader efforts to increase the adoption of telecommunications services among the population, targeting around 8.5 million beneficiaries.