Liquid Telecom released a statement late Friday announcing its position as Raha's majority shareholder and said it would strengthen the ISP's position in Tanzania.

In December the companies the telco confirmed it had received approval for the acquisition from the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA).

Dar es Salaam-based Raha provides connectivity solutions, including fibre, satellite, WiMax and WiFi, to retail and enterprise customers.

The ISP operates WiMax and WiFi hotspots in over 150 locations including Arusha, Moshi, Mwanza, Mbeya and Tanga.

Based on the deal, Raha will become part of Liquid Telecom's extensive fibre network, providing businesses with access to one single network that runs all the way from Cape Town up through Dar es Salaam and onto Nairobi, stretching over 40,000km and connecting 12 countries.

Liquid Telecom also stated the development will enhance its East Africa Fibre Ring, which connects Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania with direct connectivity to international subsea cables.

"We welcome Raha as the latest exciting addition to the Liquid Telecom group. Tanzania is a rapidly growing and dynamic African market, and through this acquisition we will be able to greater support the demand for internet access across the country," said Nic Rudnick, Group CEO, Liquid Telecom.

Liquid Telecom plans to invest further in the rollout of fibre across Tanzania and increase the number of free WiFi hotspots throughout the East African country.

"The rollout of new fibre will also help provide high-speed connectivity to more state schools across the country, supporting key education initiatives by the Tanzania government," the telco stated.

In addition, Liquid Telecom will explore ways to develop and enhance Raha's data centre facilities in Dar es Salaam.

Raha is reported to have already introduced over 150 free WiFi hotspots.

"With Liquid Telecom's support, Raha can explore new ways to increase connectivity within Tanzania as well as to the rest of the region. We will also benefit from the group's skills and expertise, helping us to achieve our vision of a more connected Tanzania," says Aashiq Shariff, CEO, Raha.

In mid-December 2016, Liquid Telecom received unconditional approval from the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) for the R6.55 billion acquisition of South African communications network operator Neotel.

In a statement the telco said the latest development follows approval from South Africa's Competition Commission during October 2016.

Liquid Telecom's partner, South African investment group Royal Bafokeng Holdings (RBH), will own a 30% stake in Neotel.