Tanzania plans to phase out physical airtime scratch cards as the country expands digital recharge services. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) announced the plan in a public notice dated October 8, 2026. The regulator said a pilot programme would begin on January 1, 2027. The move follows a public awareness campaign launched on October 1, 2026. It aims to encourage subscribers to adopt digital airtime payment methods.
Five Areas to Begin Pilot Programme
The initial rollout will target selected urban centres and districts across Tanzania. The designated areas include Dar es Salaam, selected districts in Dodoma, Arusha, Mwanza and Mbeya.
TCRA has not yet announced a nationwide deadline for ending physical scratch cards. The authority said it would communicate the date as the programme expands.
Digital Airtime Recharge Options
Subscribers in the pilot areas will be encouraged to use approved electronic channels to purchase airtime. These options include mobile money services accessed through USSD codes and official smartphone applications. Consumers can also recharge through mobile money agents and banking agents. Bank ATMs and digital banking platforms will provide additional payment options.
Why Tanzania Is Phasing Out Scratch Cards
TCRA says the transition aims to expand access to digital financial services and improve consumer convenience.
Digital platforms allow customers to purchase airtime without relying on physical vouchers. They can also reduce the production, transportation and disposal of paper and plastic scratch cards.
The change forms part of Tanzania’s wider shift towards digital financial services and a cashless economy. However, the transition will require consumers to become familiar with the available digital recharge channels.
Advice for Mobile Subscribers
TCRA has urged customers to use their existing physical vouchers before the pilot begins on January 1, 2027. Subscribers should also familiarise themselves with digital recharge options during the remaining months of 2026.
The regulator has yet to provide a nationwide phase-out date. For now, the initial programme will focus on the five designated areas.
Consumers should follow official TCRA announcements for updates on implementation and any changes to the rollout schedule.
