The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Indigo Tajikistan Closed Joint Stock Company (Tcell) have signed a $30 million equivalent local currency financing agreement to expand and modernize mobile connectivity across Tajikistan. The initiative represents ADB’s first nonsovereign loan in the country, marking a major milestone in its support for private sector development. According to ADB Country Director for Tajikistan Ko Sakamoto, the project demonstrates the Bank’s commitment to advancing connectivity and digital access, while also supporting job creation and improving access to essential services such as education and healthcare.
The Tcell Mobile Network Expansion Project aims to significantly improve the quality, coverage, and reliability of telecommunication services throughout Tajikistan, particularly in underserved rural areas where more than 70% of the population lives. The project will deploy energy-efficient technologies to enhance network performance and sustainability. Tcell’s Chief Executive Officer Ozodkhon Davlatshoev noted that the ADB’s financial support will help the company align with Tajikistan’s national digitalization agenda, meet growing demand for connectivity, and lay the groundwork for introducing 5G in urban centers while extending high-speed access to remote communities.
As Tajikistan’s leading digital communications provider, Tcell serves millions of subscribers with mobile, data, and enterprise solutions, playing a pivotal role in the nation’s digital transformation. The company’s focus on expanding reliable and inclusive connectivity is contributing to socioeconomic development and empowering individuals and businesses through advanced, future-ready technologies.
Founded in 1966, the Asian Development Bank continues to drive inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. By leveraging innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships, ADB works with its 69 member countries—50 of which are from the region—to build quality infrastructure, foster private sector investment, and support digital transformation efforts that improve lives and strengthen economies.
