• The NICTBB backbone already covers 78% of Tanzania and receives 73 billion TZS (≈ USD 30 million) for its next expansion phase.

• Tanzania is building two public data centers (Dodoma and Zanzibar) and preparing a National Cybersecurity Centre.

• The digital ID system already counts over 24 million registrations.

Tanzania accelerates its digital transformation through sustained investments in digital infrastructure and services. The government aims to maintain this momentum by strengthening its technology ecosystem.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan forms a new government on 17 November 2025. She appoints 27 ministers and 29 deputy ministers. She names Angellah Kairuki as Minister of Communication and Information Technologies, replacing Jerry William Silaa, who held the position for one year. The appointment comes as Tanzania implements its Digital Economy Strategic Framework 2024–2034 to modernize public services and reinforce digital sovereignty.

Kairuki brings long-standing ministerial experience. She previously served as Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Minister of State in the Presidency, Minister of Mines, and Deputy Minister for Lands, Housing and Constitutional and Legal Affairs. This background gives her strong command of institutional processes and high-impact economic and social programs.

Kairuki assumes responsibility for several ongoing national ICT projects. The National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) currently covers 78% of Tanzania. The government is financing the next extension phase with 73 billion Tanzanian shillings (about USD 30 million) to connect remaining underserved districts.

The government also supervises the construction of two public data centers. The first, located in Dodoma, is already in the equipment phase. The second, located in Zanzibar, is managed by the e-Government Authority (eGA). A National Cybersecurity Centre, announced in 2024, will complement these facilities and strengthen the protection of critical systems.

The minister must also continue deploying the national digital identification platform, which already records more than 24 million enrollments. She must oversee the pilot phase of the physical addressing program in Dodoma and Arusha municipalities.

The ICT sector officially contributes about 1.6% of Tanzania’s GDP. It plays a strategic role in strengthening administrative efficiency and enhancing the country’s economic attractiveness.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum