Tanzania is accelerating its bid to establish a strong digital economy as more than 600 foreign companies, primarily from China, prepare to invest in the country’s electronics manufacturing sector.
This surge in foreign interest is poised to reduce Tanzania’s reliance on imported ICT equipment, create new jobs, and potentially position the country as a major hub for technological innovation in Africa.
The government took a key step in this direction by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Electronic Information Service Co. Ltd. (CECIS), a subsidiary of China Electronics Corporation (CEC).
This agreement follows President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s September visit to China, where she highlighted the need for cooperation in digital technology and skills transfer during discussions with Chinese leaders.
The collaboration with China is seen as a major enabler of Tanzania’s 10-year Digital Economy Framework (2024–2034), which seeks to make Tanzania a regional leader in digital innovation, economy, and manufacturing.
Dr. Moses Mwasaga, Director General of Tanzania’s Information and Communication Technology Commission (ICTC), shared that the partnership is expected to support the setup of over 600 companies dedicated to manufacturing ICT equipment in Tanzania.
“Our goal is to make Tanzania a hub for electronic and computer manufacturing in Africa. By connecting these foreign investors with our young, innovative Tanzanians through incubation centers, we will ignite an ICT revolution in the country,” Dr. Mwasaga stated.
A core element of the initiative is the planned establishment of an advanced laboratory for local ICT device manufacturing, in partnership with the Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organisation (TIRDO). Dr. Mwasaga noted that reducing reliance on imports will be pivotal for Tanzania’s digital future.
“Currently, all our ICT equipment is imported, which is costly and depletes our foreign reserves. This collaboration with China will allow us to produce high-quality ICT equipment locally, lowering costs and fostering technological self-sufficiency,” he added.
The partnership with Chinese investors is also expected to generate significant employment opportunities, particularly for young graduates. “The influx of foreign investors is a vital opportunity for Tanzania to achieve its long-term development goals. This collaboration will create jobs, which is crucial for the many graduates currently without employment,” Dr. Mwasaga remarked.
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During the MoU signing on October 23, 2024, Deputy Minister for Information, Communication, and Information Technology, Ms. Maryprisca Mahundi, said the agreement aligns with the government’s broader goal of strengthening international cooperation to boost the digital economy.
“This collaboration will maximize the potential of our digital initiatives, enhance the capacity of our ICT professionals, and attract additional investments, ultimately driving job creation and economic development,” Ms. Mahundi stated.
Technology transfer is a key focus of the MoU. Dr. Mwasaga emphasized that Chinese companies will not only bring investments but will also engage in partnerships with local firms, fostering joint operations and skill development for Tanzania’s future tech workforce.
