ADB and Tcell Partner to Expand and Modernize Mobile Connectivity in Tajikistan

“This project represents a significant milestone in our partnership with Tajikistan,” said Ko Sakamoto, ADB Country Director for Tajikistan.

In a groundbreaking development for Tajikistan’s telecommunications sector, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Indigo Tajikistan Closed Joint Stock Company (Tcell) have signed a $30 million equivalent local currency financing agreement aimed at expanding and modernizing mobile connectivity across the country. The project marks ADB’s first-ever nonsovereign loan in Tajikistan, signaling a new phase in the Bank’s engagement with the private sector.

“This project represents a significant milestone in our partnership with Tajikistan,” said Ko Sakamoto, ADB Country Director for Tajikistan. “It is a testament to ADB’s commitment to private sector development in the country. Through our collaboration with Tcell, we are not only enhancing connectivity by improving telecommunication infrastructure, but most importantly, supporting jobs and improving access to education, healthcare, and digital services.”

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Transforming Connectivity for Rural and Underserved Communities

The Tcell Mobile Network Expansion Project seeks to enhance the quality and reach of telecommunications services, particularly in rural and remote regions, where more than 70% of Tajikistan’s population lives. By extending high-speed mobile coverage to underserved areas, the initiative will help bridge the digital divide and promote social and economic inclusion.

The project will introduce energy-efficient technologies, improving both the sustainability and resilience of Tajikistan’s telecommunications infrastructure. The investment is expected to deliver wide-ranging benefits — from enabling digital learning and e-health platforms to fostering new opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

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A Step Toward Tajikistan’s Digital Future

Tcell Chief Executive Officer Ozodkhon Davlatshoev emphasized that ADB’s support will help accelerate the company’s alignment with the government’s national digitalization agenda, which prioritizes the expansion of broadband networks and the adoption of advanced technologies.

“The support from ADB will enable us to expand and modernize our infrastructure in line with the national digitalization agenda and rising demand for connectivity,” said Davlatshoev. “The funding will empower us to meet current market needs while paving the way for introducing 5G technology in urban centers and significantly improving connectivity in remote areas.”

He noted that the project will help Tcell strengthen its role as a leader in digital innovation and a driver of Tajikistan’s transformation toward a knowledge-based economy.

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Advancing Private Sector Growth and Sustainable Development

The financing underscores ADB’s broader strategy to catalyze private investment in key sectors of the Tajik economy, complementing its traditional support for public infrastructure. As part of its nonsovereign operations, ADB aims to help private enterprises access affordable financing for projects that deliver public benefits — in this case, inclusive digital infrastructure and job creation.

By partnering with Tcell, ADB is also supporting the adoption of green and efficient technologies that reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. The project aligns with ADB’s Digital Agenda 2030, which seeks to promote sustainable digital connectivity across Asia and the Pacific.

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Tcell’s Role in Tajikistan’s Digital Transformation

Tcell, Tajikistan’s leading digital communications provider, serves millions of subscribers nationwide, offering mobile, data, and enterprise solutions. With a strong focus on innovation and digital inclusion, the company continues to invest in next-generation infrastructure to connect more people, businesses, and communities.

Through this partnership, Tcell aims to boost network capacity, improve service reliability, and expand access to mobile internet and data services in rural areas that have long been underserved. The project will also create employment opportunities in technology and telecommunications, contributing to socioeconomic development and regional connectivity.

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A Milestone for ADB’s Engagement in Tajikistan

ADB’s first nonsovereign operation in Tajikistan represents a strategic shift toward private sector-led development, complementing the Bank’s ongoing public-sector programs in energy, transport, and water management.

By supporting private investments that align with national development priorities, ADB seeks to promote inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven growth across the country.

“This partnership with Tcell embodies our shared vision for a more connected, digitally empowered Tajikistan,” Sakamoto concluded. “Expanding digital access is key to unlocking economic opportunities and improving lives — especially for those in rural communities.”