Facebook has announced its partnership with telecom provider Tigo to launch the app Internet.org in Tanzania
Internet.org is a Facebook-led initiative with the goal of making affordable Internet access available to the two-thirds of the world that is not yet connected.
Facebook said in a statement that Tigo customers in Tanzania can access the Internet.org app through Google Play store, via Tigo portal, and through a bookmark on Opera Mini. The service works both on smartphones and feature phones.
David Zacharia, head of data and devices at Tigo, said, “Using the app, Tanzanians will be able to access the Internet with some free basic online services. Through this partnership with Facebook, we also aim to increase digital inclusion by encouraging Tanzanians to go online.”
A statement from Facebook revealed that Tigo subscribers using Internet.org app will have free access to Facebook, AccuWeather, BabyCenter, BBC News, BrighterMonday, The Citizen, Facts for Life (a UNICEF Product), Girl Effect, Messenger, Mwananchi, Mwanaspoti, OLX, Shule Direct, SuperSport, Tanzania Today and Wikipedia.
Andrew Bocking, product manager of Internet.org, said, “The partnership with Tigo in Tanzania is beyond just free Facebook. It will include access to basic services in health, education, communication, finance, jobs and local information. This service will provide people with affordable access to technology.”
