Tanzania: Yas relies on Ericsson to improve its network capacity
June 29th 2026
In recent months, Axian Telecom has accelerated its investments and modernization projects to consolidate its position in Africa. Tanzania is one of its main markets on the continent.
Telecommunications operator Yas Tanzania has adopted a new radio solution from Swedish equipment manufacturer Ericsson to enhance its network performance, particularly its 4G capabilities. Announced on Thursday, June 25, the initiative is part of the ongoing network modernization and expansion program of Axian Telecom’s Tanzanian subsidiary.
The solution in question is Ericsson’s AIR 3285, a radio designed to increase the capacity and performance of mobile networks. According to the Swedish equipment manufacturer, it quadruples upstream capacity and doubles downstream capacity compared to conventional equipment, while also facilitating deployment in high-demand areas.
According to Ericsson, the new solution will “provide more reliable and higher quality connectivity for everyday uses such as online learning, teleworking and live streaming, while improving the user experience in high-traffic environments such as large events” .
These efforts are taking place against a backdrop of ever-increasing demand for connectivity in Tanzania, as across Africa. The digital divide also persists, with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) estimating internet penetration at only 31.2% in 2024. This is compounded by fierce competition among the main market players.
Yas had 31.85 million subscribers at the end of March 2026, according to data from the Tanzanian Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TCRA). The company ranks second behind Vodacom, which controls 32.3% of subscribers, but ahead of Airtel (21.2%). The remaining market share is divided between Halotel (16.4%) and the state-owned operator TTCL (1.6%).
In the mobile internet segment, Yas held a market share of 26.66%, compared to 33.39% for Vodacom and 20.88% for Airtel. Halotel and TTCL controlled 16.29% and 2.78% of the national mobile internet market, respectively.
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