Geita/Dodoma, October 2024 — The Tanzanian government reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the mining sector through technology, infrastructure, and stakeholder collaboration. Two significant events this week highlighted the importance of innovation and regulatory reforms to boost the sector’s economic impact.
7th National Mining Technology Exhibition in Geita
On October 3, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, opened the 7th National Mining Technology Exhibition in Geita. He addressed over 800 attendees, including miners, investors, and international stakeholders. Dr. Biteko stressed the government’s determination to attract and support investment in the mining sector.
Under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, efforts have integrated mining with other key economic areas, promoting sustainable development. One initiative allocated TZS 118 billion to electrify 90 critical mining sites, especially in the Lake Zone. This move aims to drive job creation, economic growth, and increased productivity in mining communities.
Dr. Biteko highlighted the government’s push for modern, clean technology, particularly for small-scale miners. This approach ensures environmentally friendly operations while improving efficiency and competitiveness.
Minister of Minerals Hon. Anthony Mavunde announced a TZS 232 billion budget increase for the ministry. Part of this budget will fund a new research laboratory. He also revealed plans to procure 15 mining machines to assist small-scale miners, including women and youth. These efforts align with the government’s goal to boost the mining sector’s contribution to Tanzania’s GDP to 10% by 2025.
Mining Stakeholder Engagement in Dodoma
On October 4, 2024, the Ministry of Minerals and the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) held a meeting in Dodoma to engage mining stakeholders. They discussed compliance with Section 59 of the Mining Act (Chapter 123). The session aimed to clarify the new regulations, especially on gold allocation for local refining.
Eng. Ally Samaje, Assistant Commissioner for Mining Development, explained that miners and traders must allocate at least 20% of their gold production for local refining and sale to BoT before export. This initiative seeks to increase the country’s gold reserves and support the national economy.
Eng. Ramadhani Lwamo, Acting Executive Secretary of the Mining Commission, emphasized the importance of building a full value chain within Tanzania. He encouraged further development in extraction, refining, and trading to maximize the sector’s economic benefits.
John Bina, President of the Federation of Miners Associations of Tanzania (FEMATA), praised the reforms. He urged the government to continue empowering local miners and addressing the challenges they face.
