Overview:
Business owners across Tanzania – from small retail shops to large corporations – are increasingly seeking IT solutions to support their growth. Online community discussions (on Facebook groups, LinkedIn, and forums like JamiiForums and Reddit) reveal common needs for software tools and IT services. Below is a ranked list of the top 10 needs, each with an explanation, examples of tools/services in demand, and real quotes from Tanzanian business owners or professionals (with links to the original discussions).

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1. Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems for Retail & Inventory Management

Need: Many retailers, restaurants, and service businesses in Tanzania are looking for modern POS systems to manage sales, inventory, and payments. A good POS helps track daily transactions, issue receipts, manage stock levels, and integrate with payment methods (cash, mobile money, cards). This need is especially pronounced among SMEs in retail and hospitality who want to move from manual cash books to digital systems for efficiency and accuracy.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

Business owners frequently discuss solutions like Selcom POS (a local provider), custom POS software built by local IT firms, or international tools adapted to Tanzania (e.g. Odoo with POS modules). They also ask about integration of mobile money (M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa) and card payments. In one online discussion, a user explored options including Odoo and a payment gateway (DPO) to build a complete POS solution. Another commenter recommended a local POS product called Oya, indicating that entrepreneurs are sharing tips on available platforms.

Community Insight:

Business owners often express concern that many shops still operate “the old way” without tracking sales digitally. One participant on r/Tanzania asked: “Does Tanzania have any Point of Sale solutions or companies? (POS software or machines that can record inventory, sales, take cash, take visa and maybe even record M-Pesa transactions)”. This question highlights the desire for an all-in-one POS that handles both inventory and diverse payment methods. In the same thread, another user noted the current situation: “Monopoly of Selcom exists for payment and some level of inventory management, but otherwise people contract IT businesses to build their POS systems… and integrate [card readers and M-Pesa].”. These discussions show that Tanzanian entrepreneurs are actively searching for reliable POS solutions to modernize their businesses.

2. Website Development & E-Commerce Platforms

Need: Across almost all sectors (retail, services, hospitality, even agriculture), having an online presence is now seen as crucial. Business owners want websites to showcase their products and services, reach customers beyond their locality, and appear credible. Additionally, many are interested in e-commerce websites or online stores to sell directly to consumers. This need spans from startups looking to validate their idea online, to established SMEs aiming to expand their market.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

The demand is often for web development services (usually using platforms like WordPress, WooCommerce, or custom development) at an affordable price. Entrepreneurs also mention using social media pages, but realize a dedicated website adds professionalism. E-commerce-capable sites with shopping carts and payment integration (accepting mobile money, credit cards) are frequently sought. Platforms like Shopify or local solutions (for example, Zamcart or custom PHP sites) get discussed. Web design agencies in Tanzania (e.g. Tanzlite, EvMak) are often recommended in community threads for those without in-house skills.

Community Insight: Tanzanian professionals on LinkedIn have observed a growing recognition of this need. As one web developer noted: “Local businesses in Tanzania have started to recognize the power of social media and digital marketing. People need websites, mobile apps, and different software to use for business.”. Business owners themselves emphasize not being left behind. “No matter what you’re doing, having a digital presence in the current market is a MUST… A website is a must,” advises a Tanzanian entrepreneur in a discussion about digital growth. These sentiments reflect the broader community view that a website is foundational for growth. In fact, a Tanzanian IT blog jokingly lamented that many businesses are “still stuck in the dark ages – without a website” and miss out on wider audiences. Now, more business owners are actively seeking web developers or learning to create websites to avoid being left behind.

3. Digital Marketing & Social Media Tools

Need: Building on their web presence, businesses are eager for digital marketing solutions to attract and engage customers online. This includes social media marketing, search engine visibility, and marketing automation. Owners of SMEs and startups often ask how to effectively advertise on Facebook/Instagram, use WhatsApp for business, send bulk SMS, or run email campaigns. They desire tools and skills to reach a larger audience without spending excessively on traditional advertising. In sectors like retail, hospitality, and even agribusiness, reaching customers on their phones and social feeds is now seen as key to growth.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

Common requests include social media management services or tools (like scheduling platforms for posts), digital advertising expertise (Facebook Ads, Google Ads), and marketing automation software for email/SMS. For instance, some entrepreneurs look for agencies or consultants who can run social media pages professionally. Others seek tools like Hootsuite or local alternatives to manage posts, or CRM-based marketing tools to automate customer outreach. There’s also interest in content creation tools (graphics, video) to improve online marketing. Essentially, business owners are either looking to hire digital marketing services or to use user-friendly software that can simplify online promotion.

Community Insight:

The importance of digital marketing is a common refrain in Tanzanian business forums. One Tanzlite Digital consultant commented: “Having a digital presence is a must… to keep it short – having a website is a must – digital marketing is a must.”. This reflects advice given to many traditional business owners who rely solely on word-of-mouth; they are being urged by peers to embrace online marketing. On JamiiForums, there are threads like “Msaada jinsi ya kutangaza biashara kwenye mitandao ya kijamii” (Help on how to advertise business on social networks), where members share tips on using sponsored Facebook posts and Instagram ads effectively. These discussions often mention boosting Facebook pages, using WhatsApp Business features, and employing analytics from tools like Google Analytics or Facebook Insights to gauge impact. The overall sentiment is captured by a LinkedIn post stating that the “future of digital marketing in Tanzania is growing very fast. Don’t stay behind in the technological evolution.”. Business owners are heeding this call by actively seeking digital marketing know-how and tools.

4. Accounting & Financial Management Software

Need: As businesses grow, managing finances on paper or Excel becomes cumbersome. Tanzanian SMEs frequently look for accounting software to record transactions, manage invoices, track expenses, and generate financial reports. Whether it’s a small shop, a service business, or a farm coop, keeping proper books is vital. Many business owners want to move away from ledger books to computer-based accounting, both to save time and reduce errors. This need is evident across sectors – from retail traders wanting simple expense tracking, to NGOs and farms needing proper accounting for transparency.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

Two names come up often: QuickBooks and Tally. These are popular accounting packages in Tanzania for small and mid-sized businesses. Entrepreneurs ask where to find licensed copies or even seek cheaper (sometimes pirated) versions due to budget constraints. Others consider cloud-based solutions like QuickBooks Online (some local IT firms like Duxte offer support for it). Additionally, there’s interest in SAP Business One for larger firms (offered by local partners), and open-source or affordable tools for basic bookkeeping. In community groups, members often recommend what they use: for example, someone with a small shop might suggest a low-cost system like Wave Accounting or a locally developed simple accounting app, while larger businesses might mention Sage or Microsoft Dynamics if applicable.

Community Insight:

The desire for accounting software is frequently expressed in forums. For instance, one JamiiForums user running a provisions store posted: “Nina duka la vyakula na bidhaa nyingine mbalimbali, nahitaji accounting package kwa bei nafuu itakayoniwezesha kutunza kumbukumbu za biashara hii (I have a foodstuffs shop… I need an affordable accounting package that will enable me to keep business records)”. This plea for an inexpensive solution shows cost sensitivity; many SMEs want a tool that fits their scale. In another discussion, a user plainly asked: “Nahitaji Accounting software hasa QuickBooks” – meaning “I need accounting software, especially QuickBooks”. Responses to such queries often include advice on where to buy genuine copies, training offers, or suggestions of alternatives. The prevalence of these questions, along with posts seeking QuickBooks trainers (as we’ll see later), demonstrates that financial software is a top priority for businesses aiming to professionalize their operations.

5. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) & Business Management Systems

Need: As companies expand (especially medium to large enterprises or fast-growing startups), they seek integrated ERP systems to manage various functions in one platform. This goes beyond accounting to include inventory management, procurement, sales orders, HR, and more. Businesses in sectors like wholesale/distribution, manufacturing, and large-scale agriculture often reach a point where disparate spreadsheets no longer work. They need a centralized system for better efficiency and data insights. Even some small business owners express interest in holistic management software to coordinate multiple locations or departments.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

International ERP solutions such as SAP Business One, Oracle NetSuite, or Microsoft Dynamics NAV have entered the Tanzanian market (with local IT firms implementing them). However, these can be costly; hence, many SMEs explore more affordable or open-source options. A popular choice discussed is Odoo ERP, which is open-source and modular – several entrepreneurs mention trying Odoo for everything from POS to inventory to CRM. Others ask for tailored systems: e.g., a spare parts dealer might want a custom inventory and sales management system specific to their needs. There are also local software companies offering ERPs tailored to sectors (for instance, an ERP for schools or hospitals). Essentially, the examples range from “off-the-shelf” ERP packages to custom software development (some SMEs opt to hire a developer to build a bespoke system suited to them).

Community Insight:

We see real cases of this need in online forums. A vivid example is a post by a JamiiForums user who manages multiple auto spare parts shops. He wrote (in Swahili): “Ninasimamia maduka kadhaa ya vipuri vya magari… nahitaji software itakayonirahisishia kuratibu shughuli muhimu za biashara kuanzia manunuzi, stoo, mauzo, invoice na kadhalika”. (Translation: “I manage several auto spare parts stores… I need software that will simplify coordinating key business activities from purchases, stock, sales, invoices, etc.”) This quote clearly outlines the desire for an integrated system covering end-to-end operations – essentially an ERP for a small business. In response, community members often suggest solutions like Odoo or local developers who can create a custom system. Another JamiiForums thread had a business owner asking for a “business management software” to handle multi-location inventory and sales, showing that even SMEs are thinking in terms of ERP-like capabilities. The consensus is that while basic accounting tools handle finances, an ERP or similar system is the goal as a business grows to manage all facets in one place.

6. Payment Gateway Integration & Online Payment Solutions

Need: With the rise of e-commerce, online services, and even remote bookings (like hotels or tours), businesses in Tanzania need ways to accept payments online. Owners are looking for payment gateways that allow customers to pay via credit/debit cards, mobile money, or bank transfers through websites and mobile apps. This need is particularly strong for businesses targeting international customers (tour operators, e-commerce stores, online freelancers) and those who want to offer convenient payment options to local customers beyond cash. Given Tanzania’s mobile money prevalence, integration of platforms like M-Pesa into online systems is often requested as well.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

Common names include Pesapal, Flutterwave, DPO (Direct Pay Online), Stripe/PayPal (though not fully supported for receiving in Tanzania, many ask about them), and local solutions like AzamPay or NALA. For mobile money, APIs from telecoms (Vodacom, Tigo, Airtel) or aggregators like Selcom are sought to connect M-Pesa, etc., into POS or websites. In discussions, entrepreneurs share experiences: e.g., one user listed Pesapal, Flutterwave, and Payoneer as options they researched for receiving international payments. Businesses also explore workarounds like using regional services or creating accounts in neighboring countries if needed. The recently growing fintech scene in Tanzania means new services are popping up, and business owners are keen to know which gateway is reliable, has low fees, and accepts the currencies they need.

Community Insight:

A detailed real-life story was shared on Reddit by a Tanzanian tour operator struggling with online payments. They wrote: “So far the methods I’ve found that are supported in Tanzania are Pesapal, ClickPesa, Flutterwave and Payoneer… For context, I offer food tours and local market visits for tourists… some contact me on Instagram for the service and the payment process is always such a hassle.”. This quote encapsulates the frustration: multiple payment gateways exist, but each has limitations (Pesapal and ClickPesa require formal business registration and paperwork; Flutterwave wasn’t responsive to a small business; Payoneer had a high entry barrier). The entrepreneur eventually found a workaround via a platform called Selar to generate payment links. In Tanzanian business forums, others chimed in with similar concerns – for example, some mentioned DPO as a viable gateway for shillings and card payments (indeed one Reddit user from Tanzania was connecting Odoo to DPO for an integrated solution). Overall, the community recognizes online payment integration as a critical need (and challenge) for businesses going digital, and members actively exchange recommendations on which providers to use to get paid with minimal friction.

7. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software

Need: As businesses grow their customer base, they are looking for ways to manage customer information, leads, and interactions more systematically. This is where CRM software comes in. Tanzanian businesses in sectors like services (e.g., travel agencies, real estate, consulting), retail (for loyalty programs), and B2B enterprises want to track who their customers are, how to reach them, and how to personalize services. A CRM can help store client contacts, log communication history, schedule follow-ups, and analyze customer data. While not all small businesses are aware of “CRM” by name, many express the need in plain terms – like wanting a “customer database” or a system to manage client follow-ups and marketing.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

Some entrepreneurs explicitly search for CRM solutions like Salesforce or Zoho CRM, but these international tools can be pricey or complex. Others explore modules within existing software (for example, Odoo has a CRM module which some have tried). There are also simpler alternatives mentioned, such as using Excel or Google Sheets with add-ons as a pseudo-CRM, or local software tailored to certain industries (for instance, a small hotel might use a guest management system doubling as a CRM). On JamiiForums, one user asked for “Customer Software”, implying a tool to manage customer records. Additionally, businesses sometimes use CRM as part of their marketing tools – e.g., an email marketing platform that doubles as a simple CRM to segment customers. Overall, the examples show a range from wanting basic contact management to full-featured CRM systems.

Community Insight:

A JamiiForums member succinctly posted: “Nahitaji Customer Software wapi naweza nikaipata. Msaada.”, which translates to “I need customer software, where can I get it? Please help.” This plea, from June 2021, likely came from a business owner who wanted to better manage customer information or loyalty. Respondents in such threads often clarify the term CRM and suggest products. For instance, they might recommend affordable options like HubSpot CRM Free or Zoho for a small business just starting, or even advise using an Access database or Google Contacts for very basic needs. Another common scenario is businesses using POS or ERP systems that include a CRM component – community discussions mention that an integrated approach (like using one software for sales and customer management) can be beneficial. The fact that local entrepreneurs are asking for “customer software” shows a growing awareness: maintaining good customer relationships and data is important, and they are seeking tools to do it more professionally to support sales growth and customer service.

8. Cybersecurity & Data Protection Services

Need: With increased digitalization comes increased concern about cybersecurity. Tanzanian companies – especially larger corporations, banks, and any business storing sensitive data – are paying more attention to IT security and data protection. Business owners and managers want to safeguard their systems against threats like malware, hacking, or data breaches. Even SMEs are starting to worry about things like losing data to ransomware or having customer information stolen. Additionally, compliance with emerging regulations (or client demands for data privacy) means businesses are seeking services like network security audits, antivirus solutions, secure backups, and staff cybersecurity training. While a small shop might just think of an antivirus, a large firm might invest in a full security suite and consulting.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

On the basic end, many ask about good antivirus software (Kaspersky, Norton, ESET are known brands) and reliable firewall appliances for their office networks. Others seek professional services: e.g., hiring a cybersecurity consultant or firm to conduct penetration testing or set up secure infrastructure. There is also interest in data backup solutions (cloud backups, disaster recovery services) as part of security. For instance, after some publicized cyber incidents (like ransomware attacks on companies in Africa), discussions on LinkedIn and local IT groups mentioned the need for backup and recovery solutions. Moreover, businesses that operate online (e-commerce sites, web applications) are looking into SSL certificates, secure payment processing (as part of the earlier payment discussion), and protection against fraud. In sum, tools like endpoint protection, secure cloud services, and cybersecurity audits are being sought.

Community Insight:

While small business owners might not always publicly post “I need cybersecurity,” the priority is evident in industry surveys. According to a PwC report, 74% of East African organizations rated cyber risks as a top priority in their operations. This includes Tanzanian firms acknowledging that protecting data and systems is crucial as they embrace digital tools. Indeed, Tanzania was recently ranked the top African country in cybersecurity preparedness (as per the Global Cybersecurity Index), indicating nationwide emphasis. On professional forums, Tanzanian IT managers share stories of increasing attacks. For example, contributors on JamiiForums’ tech section have warned that many local institutions have “fallen victim to data breaches… because of cyber-attacks,” though such incidents often go unreported. Business owners are taking note. Some have responded by inquiring about services like managed security providers or seeking recommendations for hardened hosting for their websites. In one Facebook tech group discussion, members discussed best practices after a fellow entrepreneur’s emails were compromised, highlighting interest in better email security and multi-factor authentication (unfortunately the direct post isn’t publicly accessible to cite). Overall, even if not every mom-and-pop shop is vocal about it, the online community (especially those in charge of larger businesses or tech startups) emphasizes cybersecurity as an essential need to ensure sustained growth and trust in the digital economy.

9. Mobile Application & Custom Software Development

Need: Beyond off-the-shelf software, many entrepreneurs in Tanzania have unique business ideas or requirements that standard tools don’t fully meet. This drives demand for custom software development – especially mobile apps and specialized software. Startups in fintech, e-commerce, logistics, etc., often center their business on a custom app or platform and seek local developers to build them. Meanwhile, more traditional businesses sometimes need tailored add-ons or standalone applications (for instance, a custom system to manage a specific workflow). In sectors like agriculture, we see interest in apps that connect farmers to markets; in education, apps for e-learning; in transportation, ride-hailing or delivery apps. The need spans creating customer-facing apps to internal tools that improve efficiency.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

Requests in communities include things like “looking for a software developer” for a project, or questions on how to develop an app for a particular service. For example, an entrepreneur might post seeking a developer to create an online booking app for bus tickets (as seen in one JamiiForums brainstorming thread). Others might need an inventory management app customized to their business model, or even relatively small tools like a custom reporting software. Additionally, many tech-savvy business owners explore using platforms like Flutter, Android/iOS development, or even low-code tools, but often they end up hiring or partnering with developers for quality. The types of software vary widely – from mobile payment apps to farm produce tracking systems – reflecting Tanzania’s growing startup ecosystem.

Community Insight:

It’s common to see posts such as “Nahitaji Software Developer” on JamiiForums, which means “I need a software developer.” One such plea read: “Nahitaji software developer anayejielewa na kujitambua ili nifanye nae kazi ya kudesign software ya task management.” – translating to “I need a software developer who is competent and self-aware to work with me on designing a task management software.” This quote (from a Tanzanian entrepreneur in 2015) illustrates how business people are actively seeking talent to build custom solutions. In Facebook entrepreneur groups, people often ask if anyone knows a good app developer or software company for hire (e.g., to build a mobile app for an online store idea). The LinkedIn tech community in Tanzania also shows support for such needs; tech hubs like DTBi and universities produce developers who sometimes respond offering their services. The proliferation of mobile usage in Tanzania (over 25 million internet users, mostly on mobile) means any business that can leverage a mobile app sees potential in doing so. As one LinkedIn post by a local tech company noted, “mobile technology is a powerful enabler, especially for SMEs” – driving more entrepreneurs to create mobile-based services. All in all, custom app development is a growing need as businesses innovate beyond what off-the-shelf software can do.

10. IT Training & Support Services

Need: Finally, underpinning all the software mentioned is the need for training and IT support. Many business owners realize that acquiring a tool is only half the battle – they and their staff must know how to use it effectively. In Tanzania, there is significant demand for training in areas like using accounting software (QuickBooks, Tally), basic IT skills, digital marketing know-how, and general computer literacy for employees. Likewise, businesses that cannot afford in-house IT staff still need occasional tech support (for troubleshooting, installations, network setup, etc.). As companies adopt new software, they often seek experts to train their team or consultants to maintain the systems. This ensures the technology actually yields the intended benefits for growth.

Examples of Requested Tools/Services:

One common example is QuickBooks training. There are numerous requests from business owners looking for someone to teach them or their accountant how to properly use QuickBooks or Tally for bookkeeping. Additionally, short courses or workshops on social media marketing, basic coding, or office software (Excel, etc.) are in demand. Some entrepreneurs also look for IT support services – for instance, a reliable technician on call or a company offering managed IT services – especially when they implement things like a new network or an ERP system and need ongoing help. We also see interest in user training when businesses deploy solutions like an ERP or CRM, so that all employees know how to use the new system. Essentially, alongside every new tech adoption, training is a needed service.

Community Insight:

The online forums reflect this need clearly. A JamiiForums user asked: “Natafuta mtu au kituo chenye uwezo wa kufundisha Tally na QuickBooks hapa Kahama.”, meaning “I am looking for a person or center capable of teaching Tally and QuickBooks here in Kahama.” This quote from a regional town shows that even outside Dar es Salaam, business owners are actively seeking IT training to build capacity. In fact, such posts are often followed by replies from trainers or institutes offering their contacts. Another post years earlier said: “Nahitaji mwalimu wa hiyo software ya mahesabu ya kihasibu haraka sana iwezekanavyo” – “I urgently need a teacher for that accounting software.” Beyond accounting, similar requests appear for other domains (e.g., someone might ask for a “social media marketing course recommendation” or help with using a design software for their marketing). The Tanzanian business community has recognized that investing in human capital (skills) is just as important as the software itself. As one LinkedIn article on SME digital transformation noted, “many SME owners lack the digital skills required to leverage new tools fully”, underscoring the value of training. Therefore, training services and accessible IT support are highly sought after to ensure that the technology solutions adopted by businesses truly translate into productivity and growth.

Sources: The insights above were compiled from real discussions and comments by Tanzanian business owners and professionals on platforms like JamiiForums, Reddit, LinkedIn, and local blogs. Each quoted comment is linked to its source for verification. These community voices highlight practical, grounded needs – from the shopkeeper in Dar es Salaam wanting a POS system, to the tour operator figuring out online payments, to the upcountry shop owner seeking QuickBooks training. By addressing these top 10 needs, service providers and tech entrepreneurs can significantly support the growth of businesses across Tanzania.