Tanzania to benefit from $60 million EU-funded mobile connectivity boost
What you need to know:
- This investment aims to enhance 4G coverage and continue the rollout of 5G services in both countries.
Dar es Salaam. In a significant boost to Tanzania's digital transformation agenda, the European Investment Bank (EIB Global) has announced a US$100 million financing package to support AXIAN Telecom’s mobile broadband infrastructure expansion in Tanzania and Madagascar.
The investment, part of the European Union's Global Gateway initiative, will see US$60 million directed towards Tanzania, with the remainder allocated to Madagascar. AXIAN Telecom, which operates under the Yas brand, will use the funding to roll out advanced 4G infrastructure and expand 5G coverage across both countries.
The project is expected to bridge the digital divide in underserved and remote areas, accelerate access to affordable high-speed internet, and foster socio-economic development across Tanzania.
“This large-scale investment in mobile phone infrastructure will benefit millions of people,” said Mr Hassan Jaber, CEO of AXIAN Telecom. “It paves the way for digital inclusion, better opportunities, and sustained economic growth.”
Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, Ambroise Fayolle, described digital connectivity as “a key enabler of education, business, healthcare and social inclusion.”
“This investment reflects the EIB’s commitment to driving positive change and empowering communities through affordable, high-speed communications,” he said.
The initiative aligns with Tanzania’s broader push for inclusive digitalisation, a priority under the government’s digital economy blueprint. It also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting innovation, reducing inequalities, and creating quality jobs.
EU Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms Christine Grau, highlighted the EU’s strong partnership with Tanzania in digital development.
“This EIB Global investment is a concrete example of our commitment to investing in connectivity infrastructure through public-private partnerships. Together, we aim to ensure that no one is left behind,” she said.
AXIAN Telecom currently serves over 44 million subscribers across nine African countries. In Tanzania, the company has positioned itself as a disruptor in the telecom market, with strategic acquisitions and heavy network inestments since 2015.
Under its Yas brand, AXIAN Telecom aims to deliver a more unified and user-focused experience for mobile customers, while its fintech arm “Mixx by Yas” continues to offer mobile financial services.
The EIB investment is part of a wider EU Global Gateway commitment to mobilise up to Euro 150 billion in Africa by 2030 for digital, green, and sustainable infrastructure development.
For Tanzania, the new funding signals a leap toward improved digital inclusion, better service delivery, and a stronger foundation for innovation and entrepreneurship in the digital age.
