TTCL lags behind as Tigo takes top spot in network quality rankings
Dar es Salaam. A new report by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) paints a stark picture of Tanzania's mobile network landscape, with Tigo leading the pack while state-owned TTCL languishes at the bottom in terms of network quality.
Released earlier this week, the Q4 2023 report evaluated over 280 events across all six networks, scoring their efficiency in key areas like call setup time, connection speed, reception quality, and network stability. In this crucial race, Tigo emerged as the undisputed champion, scoring a commanding 98.59 percent.
Zantel followed closely behind with 98.57 percent, while Vodacom Tanzania secured third place with 96.86 percent. Airtel and Halotel rounded out the top five with 95.10 percent and 90.18 percent respectively.
But the most striking performance came from TTCL, the state-owned telecom leader, which managed a meager 67.02 percent. This dismal score raises serious concerns about its ability to compete effectively in a rapidly evolving market.
"We are taking regulatory action," assured TCRA Director General Dr. Jabir Bakari, responding to queries about potential consequences for underperforming networks. "We are monitoring their activities and addressing challenges to improve service."
TTCL, however, remained unavailable for comment, leaving unanswered questions about their plans to address the reported shortcomings.
Meanwhile, Tigo attributed their victory to strategic investments in network upgrades over the past two years. "We have equipped all major cities with 5G and will complete nationwide 4G coverage by February," shared Emmanuel Mallya, Chief Technology and Engineering Officer at Tigo.
Ookla, the global internet speed testing company, further validated Tigo's dominance, recognizing them as the "fastest network in Tanzania" in 2023. Tristan Muhader, Ookla's Middle East and Africa Head, even highlighted the positive impact of Tigo's performance on Tanzania's global ranking.
For TTCL, the path forward seems to lie in a shift of focus, according to experts. Assistant Lecturer of Banking and Finance at Ardhi University, Aziz Rashid, suggests exploring alternative avenues like digital financial services or national broadband infrastructure, areas where TTCL could leverage its unique strengths.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan's words in March 2023 also resonate. During the presentation of the Controller and Auditor General's report, she bluntly stated, "Frankly speaking, TTCL has failed in the telecom business. Let them focus on providing broadband."
Whether TTCL chooses to heed these suggestions and embark on a strategic transformation remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: in the current competitive landscape, complacency is no longer an option. If TTCL hopes to reclaim its lost ground, it must adapt, innovate, and deliver the quality of service Tanzanian mobile users deserve
