Information, Communications and Information Technology Minister Nape Ennoue said the government is investing heavily in ICT, including the construction of the National Fiber Optic Cable Network, known as the National ICT Broadband Backbone. According to this Xinhua, this network connects major cities and towns in Tanzania, providing high-speed Internet access to businesses and individuals. The National ICT Broadband Backbone is part of the government’s broader strategy to improve internet connectivity across the country, which will play a critical role in making Tanzania an online business hub.
In addition to infrastructure investments, the government has put in place laws, regulations and procedures to oversee online businesses. Nnauye said the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for online businesses to flourish. Laws, regulations, and procedures are designed to protect the rights of online business owners and consumers, and promote competition and innovation.
Emmanuel Mannaseh, Director of Communications with the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), highlighted the role of youth in the digital economy. He said the regulator will continue to create a friendly environment that enables youth to participate in the digital economy. Mannase urged them to harness the opportunities created by digital technology to improve their welfare, saying the digital economy is a significant driver of economic growth and job creation.
The government’s efforts to develop the digital economy are already bearing fruit. The number of Internet users in Tanzania has increased significantly in recent years, with more people getting access to high-speed Internet. This has led to a surge in online businesses, with many entrepreneurs taking advantage of the opportunities provided by the Internet to start and grow their businesses.
