By Prosper Makene
Geneva, Switzerland, July 09, 2026– Tanzania has won the prestigious international WSIS Prize 2026 for the successful implementation of the 758 telecommunications towers project, a flagship initiative aimed at expanding communication services to rural and previously unserved areas.
The award was received by the Minister for Information, Communication and Information Technology, Hon. Angellah Jasmine Mbelwa Kairuki (MP), during a ceremony held in Geneva, Switzerland. The recognition underscores the achievements of the Sixth Phase Government in strengthening national communication infrastructure.
President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan officially launched the 758 towers project on April 10, 2026. The project was designed to bridge the digital divide by connecting communities that previously had no access to mobile voice, data and internet services.
Speaking after receiving the award, Minister Kairuki said the prize is a testament to the government’s commitment to digital inclusion and ensuring no Tanzanian is left behind regardless of location.
“The 758 towers have opened new opportunities in education, health, business and government services for millions of citizens in rural Tanzania. This award shows that our efforts to connect all Tanzanians are being recognized globally,” said Minister Kairuki.
In addition to winning the main prize, Tanzania was nominated in seven categories of the WSIS Prizes 2026. The country won two awards in total and was also presented with certificates of recognition for other high-performing projects.
The WSIS Prizes are awarded annually by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to recognize excellence in projects that advance the goals of the World Summit on the Information Society.
Officials said the rollout of the 758 towers has already improved access to digital services and boosted economic activity in remote parts of the country.
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