The use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in Tanzania is subject to strict government regulations aimed at controlling online content. Under the Electronic and Postal Communications (Online Content) Regulations, 2020, the use of VPNs to access prohibited content is illegal. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has emphasized that citizens and organizations must comply with these rules to ensure online safety and prevent the distribution of illegal material. The government maintains that these measures are necessary to regulate the cyberspace effectively (1).
In October 2023, the TCRA issued a public notice enforcing the registration of VPNs for specific users. This directive mandates that individuals and companies using VPNs for legitimate business purposes must declare their usage to the regulatory body. The requirement includes submitting details such as IP addresses to the authority. Failure to register or the unauthorized use of VPNs to bypass blocked content is considered a violation of the law, prompting concerns about privacy and digital rights among international observers (1) (2).
"TCRA requires the general public, individuals, and companies who, by nature of their undertakings, the use of VPN is indispensable, to declare their VPN and all relevant information including IP address to the Authority by, or before 30th October, 2023."
The penalties for non-compliance with these VPN regulations are severe. The TCRA has stated that individuals found rendering, possessing, or distributing technology that facilitates access to prohibited content face legal consequences. Conviction for such offenses can result in a fine of not less than five million Tanzanian shillings, imprisonment for a term of at least 12 months, or both. These stringent measures highlight the government's commitment to enforcing the 2020 regulations and penalizing unauthorized circumvention tools (2).
Source:
https://www.tcra.go.tz/news/public-notice-declaration-of-use-of-virtual-private-network-vpn
https://www.state.gov/reports/2023-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/tanzania/
Last updated: 15-01-2026 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
