As the world shifts towards greener technologies and digitalization, Tanzania is strategically leveraging its rich critical mineral resources for sustainable economic growth and strengthening its global supply chain role.
At the MINExpo International 2024 in Las Vegas, Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr. Steven Kiruswa, outlined the government’s latest initiatives aimed at developing critical minerals such as graphite, rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt, and nickel—vital components in high-tech and green technologies.
“Tanzania is making significant progress in developing its critical mineral resources, with promising exploration and projects showcasing the country’s mineral wealth. These efforts are set to boost Tanzania’s position in the global critical minerals market,” said Dr. Kiruswa.
Tanzania’s Strategic Plan
One of the key developments Dr. Kiruswa highlighted is the ongoing formulation of ‘The Tanzania Critical and Strategic Minerals Strategy,’ which is currently in the stakeholder consultation phase. This comprehensive strategy is designed to manage and optimize Tanzania’s mineral resources, attract investment, and drive economic growth while ensuring sustainable practices.
The strategy will establish a framework for the exploration, mining, beneficiation, and supply chain management of critical minerals. It aims to position Tanzania as a leader in the global minerals market, reduce reliance on imports, create high-value jobs, and address environmental and social challenges.
Legal and Regulatory Reforms
In addition to the new strategy, the government is implementing legal reforms to create a more attractive investment environment. These reforms include streamlining the regulatory and licensing processes to reduce bureaucratic delays and introducing a one-stop service center at the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) to simplify administrative procedures for mining companies.
Dr. Kiruswa also emphasized the importance of comprehensive geological surveys. The government, through the Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST), plans to expand its High-Resolution Airborne Geophysical Survey, increasing the coverage of mapped areas rich in critical minerals from 16% to over 50% of the country by 2030.
“This initiative will generate detailed geographical maps and provide crucial resource data to potential investors,” Dr. Kiruswa noted.
Infrastructure and Capacity Building
Recognizing the need for efficient infrastructure, Dr. Kiruswa stated that the government is upgrading transport networks, including road, railway, and port facilities, to support mining operations. Additionally, efforts are being made to expand the national energy grid to meet the growing demand for electricity from the mining industry and reduce operational costs.
The government is also investing in education and training programs to develop a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of the mining sector, ensuring local content and capacity building.
Investment Incentives and Project Development
To attract further investment, Tanzania is offering a range of incentives, including tax exemptions, investment guarantees, and infrastructure support. These incentives are designed to encourage both local and international investors to participate in the development of the country’s critical minerals sector.
Dr. Kiruswa announced that Tanzania has 12 advanced critical mineral projects ready for development, including six graphite projects in Ulanga, Nachingwea, and Lindi districts, a nickel project in Ngara, and several other projects focused on rare earth elements, niobium, uranium, and heavy mineral sands.
Three graphite projects are already in production, including the Lindi Jumbo in Lindi District, Permanent Minerals in Mirerani (Simanjiro District), and the GodMwanga project in Handeni District.
“The government has been proactive in attracting investors to develop these resources, and we are witnessing increased investment interest in critical minerals,” said Dr. Kiruswa.
With these strategic measures in place, Tanzania is positioning itself as a key player in the global critical minerals market, capitalizing on its abundant resources to support both national and global technological advancements.
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