The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology and the ICT Commission, in partnership with SoftVentures and the Tanzania Internet Service Providers Association (TISPA), have introduced the TEHAMA Awards 2025 to recognize innovators and start-up business owners in the local market.

Addressing journalists in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Dr. Nkundwe Mwasaga Director General of the Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Commission said that the TEHAMA Awards 2025 will recognize outstanding contributions in Tanzania’s ICT sector. 

The event is set to take place on February 21 in Arusha city.

He said the awards will be offered to celebrate individuals, organizations, and initiatives that drive digital transformation, foster innovation, and promote inclusion.

According to him, the awards presentation event will serve as a key platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to connect, collaborate, and accelerate the country’s digital economy.

“We invite innovators, ICT leaders, startups, public and private sector institutions, and organizations across Tanzania to participate in this year’s awards by submitting their nominations in ten categories namely Innovation in ICT Products or Services, Best Use of ICT and ICT for Social Impact,” said Dr Mwasaga.

He mentioned other categories as Young ICT Achiever, Women in ICT, ICT Security, Public Sector ICT Project, Sustainable ICT, the TISPA Awards for Best Internet Connectivity Provider, and the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology Lifetime Achievement in ICT.

According to him, with a total of 22 awards to be presented, each of the above categories carries several subcategories that reflect different sectors and industries. Nominations are open until February 10th, 2025 to be submitted through a specially designed website.

Mohammed Mashaka, Director of Information Systems Development, and Services in the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology said that the government is out to create conducive environment toward a digital economy that is inclusive for all.

Joseph Rwegoshora, TISPA’s Technical Associate said that the company has concluded joining hands with the government in accelerating the ICT sector to higher levels of prosperity.

According to him, in the wake of an inclusive digital economy, the Tanzania Internet Service Providers Association (TISPA) is set to collaborate with the government in realizing the anticipated mission.

“TISPA is an industry body representing internet service providers and ICT stakeholders. It advocates for digital inclusion, policy development, and the expansion of ICT infrastructure to support Tanzania’s growing digital economy.,” said Rwegoshora.

Daniel Mhina, Founding Partner, SoftVenture Solutions Limited said that the company considers the awards the TISPA best motive towards boosting innovation and accelerating the growth of start-ups.

He asserted that the company is committed to developing innovative community-driven solutions, promoting the circular economy within the ICT industry, and driving continuous learning and development.

“By partnering with key stakeholders, SoftVentures bridges the gap between technology and sustainable progress, ensuring measurable impact in Tanzania and beyond,” he said.

Mhina affirmed that a company is an innovation-driven organization dedicated to leveraging technology for sustainable development. With a mission to catalyze impactful solutions, SoftVentures empowers communities, transforms markets, and fosters collaboration through ICT.