“With a more accessible, faster, and affordable internet connection, I expect to link with my clients more easily, although that will also mean more cost for the service,” says Ms Juma.
However, Ms Juma is sceptical that low internet penetration and slower speed would alter her business as clients find it difficult to reach her on time and incur losses.
“I reach the market through my online platform, whereby I post products for the day and keep track of what’s in higher demand, prices, and other details for my business through an online app. But when I am at the farm, I do not receive orders because there is no internet connection; that is a real setback to my business,” she adds.
Isaack Benson, a graphic designer based in Dar es Salaam shares his sentiments. “Personally, I am excited to see the government and more firms and organizations adopt this fifth generation network. I’m looking forward to when I go to a public hospital and see services are more fast and efficient or when I visit a government parastatal and I am not obliged to move around floors up and down because the network is unstable.”
He believes accessible internet connections also mean a more efficient online experience and very quick access to knowledge and entertainment.
“Technology such as 5G opens up access to many things I can learn and do with smart things,” says Mr Benson.
Last month, President Samia Suluhu Hassan witnessed the signing of two contracts worth Sh275.5 billion ($122 million) for the construction of 758 communication towers in 713 districts in mainland Tanzania in an effort to increase connectivity and facilitate the achievement of a digital economy.