Millicom, the international telecommunications and media company has announced the launch of its new 4G wireless network in Tanzania, offering Tigo customers high-speed internet for the first time.

The network today launches in the Masaki and Mlimani districts of Tanzania's capital city Dar Es Salaam, from where the high-speed network will extend to cover the city in full as well as the regional capitals of Arusha, Moshi, Dodoma, Morogoro, Mwanza and Tanga by August.

Speaking at the launch, Tigo General Manager Cecile Tiano said: "This will make us by far the biggest 4G network in Tanzania and once again demonstrate our company's commitment to the digital lifestyle transformation as leaders in delivering cutting edge technology and innovation in this market."

4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology is the standard for wireless communication of high-speed data.

According to the company with the surge in use of smartphones among Tanzanians, 4G will enable Tigo customers to enjoy a world-class experience when making online calls, accessing high definition content, streaming and downloading data.

A media release issued by Millicom made reference to a recent announcement by Tigo of its plans to invest US $120 million on its network expansion and improvement during 2015.

"The investment includes scaling up its 3G sites and fibre network countrywide to offer continually improving quality services to more users," the statement reads.

In February 2015 Millicom reached an agreement with Vodacom M-Pesa service according to which Tigo Pesa customers in Tanzania can transact with users of all the country's mobile money networks.

In the same month the company's executive vice-president for Africa, Arthur Bastings confirmed the growth of Tigo operations and brand, and the company's ability to leverage increased usage of mobile voice services and mobile broadband using 3G mobile infrastructure.

It has experienced an increase in new customers, specifically driven by Tanzania and DRC.