Purpose – This paper seeks to assess the extent to which the learning and web 2.0 technologies are utilized to support learning and teaching in Africa’s higher learning institutions, with a specific focus on Tanzania's public universities. Design/methodology/approach – A combination of "content analysis" and "semistructured interviews" was used to collect data. The study conducted semi-structured interviews with ICT personnel from six out of the eight public universities in Tanzania in 2011. Findings – The study found that the adoption of e-learning and web 2.0 technologies is still in its infancy stages in the Tanzania public universities. However, there was much enthusiasm amongst respondents for developing the potential of e-learning and web 2.0 tools in their universities. Practical implications –The study seeks to promote an academic inquiry about the need for innovative web 2.0 technologies in learning and teaching and the adoption of these emerging technologies in African’s higher learning institutions. Originality/value - The study provides empirical findings on the use of e-learning and web 2.0 for higher education, specifically in the Tanzanian context. The study provides a basis for further research on the use of Web 2.0 technologies in higher education