Tanzania has introduced a new national ICT Ranking System aimed at improving transparency, efficiency and accountability across public institutions as the country accelerates its digital transformation agenda.
The ranking system—unveiled by the Ministry of Information, Communication and Information Technology—will evaluate how government ministries, agencies, regions and councils use digital tools, protect data, provide online services and support innovation.
According to ICT experts, the new system will help the government identify where digital services are lagging and highlight institutions that are performing well. It will also encourage public offices to improve how they use technology in service delivery, record-keeping and communication.
Officials say the ranking system is part of Tanzania’s broader plan to modernise the public sector and strengthen accountability, especially as more services move online.
The evaluation criteria will include:
Website and online service quality
Cybersecurity standards
Data protection and management
Use of ICT in administration
Support for local innovation and digital skills
More Opportunities for Local Tech Talent
ICT professionals say the government’s push will open more doors for local developers, innovators and private firms. Because government departments will now be assessed on their digital performance, many will need to upgrade their systems, adopt new technologies and hire skilled experts.
“This system creates a clear demand for local ICT solutions,” experts noted. “It will help Tanzanian developers showcase their expertise and contribute more directly to national digital growth.”
The ICT ranking system is also seen as a strategy to reduce inefficiency, curb misuse of public resources and ensure citizens receive faster, more reliable digital services. It comes at a time when Tanzania is working to strengthen its position in East Africa as a growing digital hub.
Government officials say the rankings will be published annually, giving citizens and stakeholders a transparent view of each institution’s performance.
The rollout comes as the country faces increasing pressure to improve digital governance, especially from civil society groups and international partners calling for more accountability in both political and administrative spaces.
It also aligns with other recent efforts to grow the innovation ecosystem, including new policies, start-up support programmes and ICT investment incentives.
