Last-Mile Fiber Optic Infrastructure for Rural Communities Connectivity in Tanzania
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In 2007 Tanzania Electric supply company limited (TANESCO) rolled out its optical communication systems network covering 2,962Km along high voltage pylons country-wide, aiming to enhance power systems operations. Ever since the Tanzanian Government through Tanzania Telecommunication Company (TTCL) has been utilizing and extending part of this network for ICT services provision to rural communities. Despite the government efforts to extend last mile connectivity, the pace does not meet the demand and services are not affordable for the rural population majority. The cost-effective solution is for TANESCO to invest more on construction of optical fiber infrastructure and commercialize the excess capacity. Since Telecommunication is not TANESCO’s core business, formation of a subsidiary company and submission of a business plan is a regulatory requirement. The development of this plan involves consultation with various stakeholders such as The Tanzania Communication Regulatory Authority (TCRA), The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, and telecommunication companies that are interested in leasing the services. Upon successful formation, the subsidiary will bridge and complement existing government efforts while increasing revenue streams to the power utility company. This will in turn improve the quality and affordability of ICT Services to the rural communities in Tanzania.