Dar es Salaam — October 9, 2025: Tanzania’s communications sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) reporting that total telecom subscriptions hit 92.7 million by June 2025, reflecting steady expansion across mobile and internet services.
According to the latest TCRA quarterly report, this figure marks a rise from 90.2 million in March, driven by enhanced network coverage, youth engagement, and digital inclusivity. Internet subscriptions reached 54.1 million, raising the national internet penetration rate to 79%, positioning Tanzania on track to achieve its 80% target by year-end.
SIM card penetration has now surpassed the national population, standing at 139%, illustrating widespread multi-SIM ownership. Meanwhile, smartphone adoption has grown sharply—from 25% in 2022 to 37% as of June 2025—expanding access to online learning, e-commerce, and digital services.
“This shows that more young people, students, and entrepreneurs can now access digital services beyond voice calls—ranging from online learning to mobile commerce,” said Dr. Jabiri Bakari, Director General of TCRA.
Network modernization remains central to this growth. 3G and 4G coverage now reaches 93% and 92% of the population, while 5G subscriptions climbed from 1.19 million in April to 1.31 million in June, expanding 5G coverage from 23% to 26% in just two months.
Industry analysts note that such rapid adoption is laying the groundwork for advanced applications including e-government, telemedicine, and high-speed digital finance.
The TCRA’s regulatory framework has also accelerated financial inclusion, with mobile money accounts more than doubling in five years—from 25.8 million in 2019 to 68.1 million by June 2025—empowering youth and small businesses outside the formal banking system.
Beyond connectivity, the regulator continues to invest in digital literacy and innovation, establishing ICT centres, digital clubs in schools, and content creation initiatives to equip young Tanzanians with practical digital skills.
To promote equitable access, TCRA and the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF) are expanding rural tower infrastructure, extending mobile and internet coverage to underserved communities and enabling digital healthcare, education, and commerce for all citizens.
