Sylvia Duruson
Tanzania and Uganda have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to integrate their national information and communication technology (ICT) networks in a deal worth $28.8 million.
The 15-year agreement will connect Tanzania’s National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) with Uganda’s National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) through collaboration between Tanzania’s TTCL Corporation and Uganda’s National IT Authority (NITA-U).
Key government officials attended the signing, including Tanzania’s Minister for ICT, Nape Nnauye and Uganda’s ICT Minister, Chris Baryomunsi. Nnauye emphasised the deal would increase ICT utilisation and trade between the nations, fulfilling a commitment made during recent presidential visits.
He directed TTCL to deliver quality services under the agreement and ensure a seamless user experience. Tanzania has now connected several East African states to its backbone, with progress ongoing to reach nations like Mozambique.
For Uganda, Baryomunsi predicted the deal could reduce business costs by 50% and create new job opportunities. He noted benefits beyond East Africa, as the integrated network provides connectivity potential with South Sudan and the DRC.
TTCL Director General Peter Ulanga reaffirmed the company’s commitment to managing the critical infrastructure for both countries professionally. The backbone enhances Uganda’s global capabilities through links to submarine cables.
Ulanga invited Uganda to utilise TTCL’s National Internet Data Centre, which offers advanced security and storage.
The ICT integration reflects growing regional cooperation between the neighbouring countries. It builds on mutual interests in advancing connectivity laid out during recent presidential meetings.
Officials emphasised that beyond commercial benefits, the unified networks can drive broader economic and social development goals.
With TTCL’s experience operating NICTBB across East Africa, its stewardship of the new integrated infrastructure will be critical to ensuring smooth rollouts.
By bridging ICT gaps between their nations, Tanzania and Uganda have taken a significant step toward their shared vision of greater regional integration. Their landmark ICT partnership is a model for collaborative projects that uplift economies and people.
