Digital transformation is a priority for Tanzanian authorities to drive socio-economic development. Achieving these goals requires expanding public access to digital services.

The Tanzanian government aims to support the development of its local ICT equipment industry, including phones, computers, and tablets, Nkundwe Mwasaga, Director General of the ICT Commission (ICTC), announced during a visit last week to the Tanztech Electronics Limited factory in Arusha. These efforts could improve public access to devices essential for digital services.

According to the GSMA, limited access to smartphones is a major barrier to mobile internet adoption worldwide. The organization estimates that in 2023, 40 million Tanzanians were not connected to mobile internet, while the country's population stood at 67.4 million, according to the World Bank. Official statistics indicate that by the end of December 2024, Tanzania had 47.85 million mobile internet users. However, this figure represents the number of SIM cards used to access the service, meaning some individuals may own multiple SIMs.

"President [Samia Suluhu] directed us to find investors who will establish factories to produce various ICT products here in Tanzania so that we can work together to drive the digital economy agenda," said Mwasaga. He added that ICTC will work with investors to ensure that locally manufactured products are both competitive and affordable for the population.

To achieve these goals, the government must address key challenges facing the local ICT equipment industry. Gurveer Hans, CEO of Tanztech Electronics Limited, highlighted the need to reduce tax burdens across the production and distribution chain in Tanzania. "We import raw materials from our partners in China, but we are burdened with heavy taxes, which make locally made products costly for consumers,” he explained.

By Isaac K. Kassouwi

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji