The government is actively focusing on establishing dedicated technology hubs, enhancing digital skills, and improving access to financing to foster startup growth and reduce structural unemployment.
A significant marker of this progress is the report from the Tanzania ICT Commission in March 2024, which indicated that about 21 million young Tanzanians aged 15 to 34 are self-employed within the technology and innovation sectors — mainly in startups and online businesses. This group accounts for roughly 33% of the country’s total population of approximately 61.7 million, based on the 2022 census.
Tanzania benefits from a predominantly young population, with over 60% under the age of 25, and has experienced remarkable digital growth, with internet subscriptions increasing by 86% between 2020 and 2024, according to the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA). This youthful demographic and rapid digital expansion present promising opportunities for innovation and economic diversification.
However, compared to regional leaders like Kenya and Rwanda — ranked first and third respectively in East Africa per the World Bank’s Digital Readiness Index — Tanzania still faces challenges in digital infrastructure, administrative efficiency, and private sector engagement. To bridge this gap, the country needs to strengthen its digital infrastructure, streamline administrative procedures, and foster more public-private partnerships.
Inspirational benchmarks include Rwanda’s data centre investments and Nigeria’s fintech ecosystem development. By translating these examples into concrete reforms and sustained investments, Tanzania aims to position itself among the top five technology hubs in the region, unlocking new economic opportunities and reducing unemployment through innovation.
