Tanzania Records 56.3 Million Internet Users as Connectivity Reaches 87% of Population
With over 56 million connected users, Tanzania is now solidifying its position as one of Africa’s fastest-growing digital economies — a key driver of innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development in the region.
Tanzania has reached a new digital milestone, recording 56.3 million active internet subscriptions by September 2025, according to the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA)’s Communication Statistics Report for the Quarter Ending September 2025. This figure represents a sharp increase from 52.9 million in June 2025, reflecting the country’s rapid progress toward universal digital access and inclusion.
The TCRA report attributes this growth primarily to the expansion of mobile broadband services, particularly 4G and 5G networks, coupled with increasing smartphone adoption and affordable data packages. Mobile network operators such as Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo, Halotel, and Smile have continued to invest heavily in expanding network coverage to underserved and rural areas.
Out of the total subscriptions, mobile internet dominates with over 99% of users accessing the web via smartphones or mobile devices, underscoring the central role of mobile technology in Tanzania’s digital transformation. Fixed broadband and fiber services continue to grow modestly, driven by enterprise demand and urban connectivity projects.
The TCRA report also highlights a steady rise in internet penetration, now reaching 87% of the population, positioning Tanzania among the leading digital adopters in East Africa. This surge in connectivity aligns with national efforts under Tanzania’s Digital Transformation Strategy (2020–2030), which aims to expand digital access, promote e-government services, and strengthen the ICT economy.
Digital inclusion initiatives, public Wi-Fi programs, and ongoing reductions in data tariffs have played a key role in enabling access for low-income users. Additionally, the government’s National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) has enhanced interconnectivity across regions and improved internet reliability and speeds.
The report indicates that this sustained growth in connectivity has also fueled a rise in mobile money usage, e-commerce, and online learning, reflecting the broader socio-economic benefits of a digitally connected society. The TCRA projects that internet subscriptions will continue to rise through 2026, supported by ongoing infrastructure investments, expanding 5G deployments, and the increasing affordability of smart devices.
With over 56 million connected users, Tanzania is now solidifying its position as one of Africa’s fastest-growing digital economies — a key driver of innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development in the region.
