The Government of Zanzibar has presented a 53.39 billion shilling budget for the communication, information technology and innovation sector for the 2026/2027 financial year.

The budget was tabled in the House of Representatives by the Minister for Communication, Information Technology and Innovation, Mudrik Ramadhani Soraga, and is aimed at accelerating digital transformation, strengthening connectivity and supporting economic growth across the islands.

The plan is aligned with major national development frameworks, including the Zanzibar Development Vision 2050, the CCM Election Manifesto 2025–2030, directives from President Dr Hussein Mwinyi and the newly completed Zanzibar Digital Policy 2026.

Key priorities include finalising the Personal Data Protection Act, drafting a Startups and Innovation Act to encourage entrepreneurship and investment, and developing a comprehensive ICT law to improve governance of the sector.

The government also plans to expand telecommunications infrastructure through the construction of communication towers in underserved areas of Unguja and Pemba, helping reduce the digital divide between urban and rural communities.

Other initiatives include expanding the residential digital addressing system, increasing public awareness campaigns and advancing the Fumba ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub under the Digital Tanzania Project.The ministry will continue providing ICT skills training through community centres to strengthen digital literacy.

Progress recorded between July 2025 and March 2026 includes the distribution of 409 tablets to government institutions and local leaders, issuance of 29,475 digital introduction letters, approval of 27 communication towers and digital training for 1,015 citizens, including a majority of women participants.In addition, 72.5 percent of public institutions have been connected to the national fibre optic network.

Despite achievements, challenges such as limited funding, ageing ICT infrastructure, cybersecurity threats and delayed payments for communication services remain.Overall, the budget reflects Zanzibar’s commitment to building an inclusive and competitive digital economy.